Creates provisions related to public school curriculum and instruction
Impact
If passed, this bill will have significant implications for the state's education system. School districts will face restrictions on how they develop their curriculums, notably around topics such as The 1619 Project and critical race theory, effectively limiting discussions that may address historical narratives of race and social justice. This legislation aims to enforce a more traditional approach to teaching U.S. history and civics while potentially undermining the inclusion of contemporary social issues, thereby sparking debate around educational freedom and the role of schools in addressing systemic inequities.
Summary
Senate Bill 694 seeks to amend Missouri's educational framework by introducing a prohibition on the teaching of 'divisive concepts' within public school curriculums. The bill defines various ideas that would be categorized as divisive, which includes notions that suggest inherent superiority of one race or sex over another, or that promote the idea that the United States is fundamentally racist or sexist. The bill further restricts the implementation of teacher training that involves racial or sex stereotyping, aiming to detach educational practices from concepts viewed as controversial or divisive.
Contention
There has been notable contention surrounding the bill, primarily between proponents who argue for a standardized approach to history and civic instruction, and opponents who believe it risks oversimplifying or whitewashing complex social issues. Critics raise concerns that such restrictions could limit students' exposure to diverse perspectives necessary for informed civic engagement. Proponents of SB694 insist that the bill's passage will protect students from indoctrination into particular ideologies, while detractors argue that it stifles critical thinking and the ability to engage with the realities of racial and social dynamics in America.
Relating to the instructional materials for certain curriculum in public schools, including certain instructional prohibitions and requirements regarding those materials.