Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB285

Introduced
1/31/23  

Caption

In terms and courses of study, providing for instruction in the events and significance of September 11, 2001.

Impact

The implementation of SB285 is expected to influence educational standards within the state, particularly concerning history and social studies curricula. Schools will be required to develop lesson plans that adequately cover the events of September 11, ensuring that students learn about its significance in a structured and informed manner. This requirement could also lead to greater awareness among students of the implications these events have on current national and global relations.

Summary

SB285 aims to provide instruction in schools regarding the events and significance of September 11, 2001. The bill seeks to integrate this subject into the curriculum, emphasizing the importance of the events on that day and their impact on the United States and the world. By doing so, the bill intends to foster a greater understanding of historical events among students, helping them to appreciate the values of resilience and unity that followed the tragedy.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding SB285 is cautiously supportive. Many educators and legislators recognize the importance of teaching about significant historical events, particularly one as impactful as September 11. The bill is seen as an opportunity to instill values of patriotism and civic duty in students. However, there are also concerns about the adequacy of time allocated to teach this subject alongside existing curriculum requirements, indicating a slight pushback from some educators about fitting this content into an already crowded syllabus.

Contention

While SB285 is largely viewed positively, there are areas of contention. Some critics argue that the bill may lead to a simplified or potentially biased portrayal of events surrounding September 11, suggesting that educational content should encompass various perspectives, including those of affected communities. Additionally, there are concerns about resource allocation for training teachers to effectively deliver this instruction, raising questions about the practical implications of the bill's requirements.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB290

In terms and courses of study, providing for moment of silence on September 11 anniversary.

PA HB1097

In terms and courses of study, providing for moment of silence on September 11 anniversary.

PA SB296

In terms and courses of study, providing for moment of silence on January 6 anniversary.

PA SB479

In terms and courses of study, providing for moment of silence on January 6 anniversary.

PA HB779

In terms and courses of study, providing for Asian-American and Pacific Islander history instruction.

PA SB839

In terms and courses of study, providing for Asian-American and Pacific Islander history instruction.

PA HB771

In terms and courses of study, providing for African-American and Latino history instruction.

PA HB1054

In terms and courses of study, further providing for Holocaust, genocide and human rights violations instruction.

PA HB1565

In terms and courses of study, providing for instructions in firearm safety.

PA HB1448

In terms and courses of study, providing for conflict resolution instruction.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.