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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | May 22, 2024 11:23 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Kristin Marcell and Rep. Robert W. Mercuri, Rep. Shelby Labs |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Study and Report on Holocaust Curriculum and Instruction |
| One-fifth of U.S. citizens between the ages of 18 and 29 believe that the Holocaust is a myth, according to a poll conducted last December by The Economist. With antisemitic attacks on the rise, its more important than ever to ensure our State curriculum regarding the Holocaust represents a true and accurate account of Holocaust history. We are seeking co-sponsors for legislation to regularly review and update curriculum on the Holocaust, genocide, and human rights violations. This bill represents a crucial step in ensuring our students receive comprehensive education on these critical historical topics. While current law (24 P.S. § 15-1554) encourages age-appropriate instruction on the Holocaust, genocide, and human rights violations, limited information exists on how extensively schools are covering these subjects or the quality of curriculum used. We have a solemn responsibility to impart lessons from some of history's darkest chapters to promote greater empathy, tolerance, and respect for others among future generations. Our legislation would require the State Board of Education to conduct a thorough study every five years, beginning in the 2024-25 school year, on how school entities are offering Holocaust, genocide, and human rights instruction. The study will collect data on the number of schools providing such instruction, their utilization of Department of Education curriculum guidelines and training, and the grade levels and courses in which these topics are covered. Under current law, if the study reveals that fewer than 90% of school entities are providing instruction consistent with State academic standards on these subjects, the State Board is required to commence a formal rulemaking process to require Holocaust, genocide, and human rights violations instruction. A detailed report of findings and recommendations would be due to the legislature and administration by November 30, 2025, and every five years thereafter. As a State, we bear a collective obligation to preserve the memory of the millions lost to unconscionable atrocities like the Holocaust and other genocides. Regularly studying and reporting on how our schools approach educating students about these events will identify gaps and spur real improvements. Please join us in co-sponsoring this important legislation to ensure Pennsylvania students have consistent access to impactful instruction on the Holocaust, genocide, and human rights. The best way to fight antisemitism, and all forms of hate, is through education. |
Introduced as HB2371
Memo Updated: May 22, 2024 11:29 AM