Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB296

Introduced
1/31/23  

Caption

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

Impact

If enacted, SB296 will require all educational institutions, including public, charter, and private schools, to incorporate this moment of silence into their instructional time. While participation in the curriculum developed by the Department of Education will be voluntary, the bill emphasizes the significance of acknowledging this national event. The proposed model curriculum aims to create awareness and understanding among students regarding the insurrection and its ramifications in the socio-political landscape of the United States.

Summary

Senate Bill 296 (SB296) proposes that each school entity in Pennsylvania conduct a moment of silence on January 6 each year. This observance is intended to remember the individuals who lost their lives or were injured during the insurrectionist attacks on the United States Capitol on January 6, 2021. The bill also stipulates that the Pennsylvania Department of Education will develop and provide a model curriculum to educate students about the events of January 6, its historical context, government responses, and its ongoing implications, which must be completed within a year from the bill's enactment.

Sentiment

Reactions to SB296 appear to be mixed, reflecting a divide among lawmakers and the public. Supporters argue that the bill is essential for educating future generations about an important moment in American history, promoting awareness and reflection. They see the moment of silence as a way to honor those affected by the events of January 6, while critics may view this as a politically charged initiative that could lead to ideological splits in educational content. The sentiment surrounding the bill illustrates the conflicting perspectives on how to address sensitive historical events within the educational curriculum.

Contention

Notable points of contention include potential pushback regarding the appropriateness of memorializing January 6 in schools, as many consider it a politically sensitive topic. Critics may argue that such a curriculum could be used to promote a particular political narrative. Furthermore, the bill allows schools the discretion to adopt the model curriculum provided by the Department of Education, potentially leading to inconsistencies in how the events of January 6 are taught across different school entities, thus raising concerns about educational equity and ideological bias.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB479

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

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 SB285

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

PA HB342

In terms and courses of study, providing for mindfulness techniques.

PA HB2006

In terms and courses of study, providing for mindfulness techniques.

PA HB2109

In terms and courses of study, providing for student mental health supports.

PA HB1680

In terms and courses of study, providing for deaf and hard of hearing education.

PA SB293

In terms and courses of study, providing for consent education.

PA SB663

In terms and courses of study, providing for deaf and hard of hearing education.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.