Required Instruction in the History of the Holocaust and the History of African Americans
The implementation of this bill is set to begin in the 2023-2024 school year, during which each school district will be required to submit annual evidence of compliance to the Department of Education. Schools will need to adopt comprehensive plans that address the integration of Holocaust and African American history into all appropriate subject areas, and allocate resources for ongoing professional development of instructional staff. The State Board of Education will also have governance over the adoption of rules to administer these changes, which could ensure consistency across educational entities in Florida.
House Bill 0051 aims to amend Florida statutes regarding required instruction in public schools, focusing specifically on the history of the Holocaust and the history of African Americans. The bill mandates the Florida Department of Education to create standards and curricula for teaching these histories, including the development of related instructional materials. Schools will be expected to integrate these subjects into their existing curricula and ensure that these topics are emphasized throughout their educational programs. This instruction is to be included in school district, charter, and private school plans and made publicly accessible through various platforms, including websites and curriculum guides.
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 0051 include the penalties imposed on school officials for non-compliance. For instance, the bill stipulates salary withholdings for school superintendents and potential loss of state funds for private schools failing to meet the bill’s standards. Critics may argue that these provisions impose unnecessary pressures on educational administrators and could detract from the educational mission of schools. Supporters, however, may view these measures as critical to ensuring that the instruction of significant historical events is prioritized and delivered effectively within Florida's educational system.