Missouri 2022 Regular Session

Missouri Senate Bill SB676

Introduced
1/5/22  

Caption

Creates provisions related to curricula and instruction in public schools

Impact

If enacted, SB 676 would have significant implications for public school curricula across the state of Missouri. It would require the state board of education to adopt a policy that prohibits the promotion of divisive concepts in educational settings. This shift could limit discussions surrounding historical and social issues that relate to race and gender, fundamentally changing how educators approach these subjects and potentially impacting student understanding of diversity and systemic issues.

Summary

Senate Bill 676, introduced by Senator Brown, proposes to amend Chapter 160 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri by adding a new section aimed at regulating the content of public school curricula and instruction. The bill defines 'divisive concepts' as a range of ideas related to race and gender that suggest inherent superiority, systemic racism or sexism, and promote guilt or discomfort based on an individual's race or gender. The intent of this legislation is to ban the inclusion of such concepts within the educational framework, effectively altering how issues of race and gender are taught in public schools.

Contention

The bill has generated notable points of contention among legislators, educators, and civil rights advocates. Proponents of SB 676 argue that it aims to create a more unified and non-contentious educational environment by preventing the teaching of concepts that could be deemed divisive. However, critics assert that the bill undermines comprehensive education and hinders discussions on critical social issues. There are concerns that limiting discussions about race and gender may isolate students from important historical contexts and societal realities, thus impacting their overall educational experience.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MO SB734

Creates provisions related to curricula and instruction in public schools

MO SB638

Creates provisions related to curricula and instruction in public schools

MO SB1184

Creates provisions related to curricula and instruction in public schools

MO SB172

Creates provisions relating to curricula and instruction in public schools

MO SB694

Creates provisions related to public school curriculum and instruction

MO SB918

Establishes provisions relating to public school curriculum and instruction

MO SB45

Prohibiting certain divisive acts from school curriculum, state agencies, and any groups receiving state funding

MO HB1068

Public elementary and secondary schools; curricula and instruction.

MO SB570

Public elementary and secondary schools; curricula and instruction.

MO SB22

Creates provisions relating to the protection of children

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.