Maryland Senate Bill SB149

Maryland 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23

Caption

Education - Curriculum - Unit of Instruction on September 11, 2001, Terrorist Attacks

Impact

The incorporation of this instructional unit aims to provide a comprehensive educational framework that includes age-appropriate and interdisciplinary approaches. Guidelines for the content will be developed by the State Board of Education by January 1, 2024, ensuring consistency with other grade-level requirements. This initiative reflects a long-term commitment to enhancing historical education, particularly concerning events that have shaped the national landscape.

Summary

Senate Bill 149 mandates that all public schools and participating nonpublic schools in Maryland include a unit of instruction in their curriculum about the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. This requirement will begin in the academic year 2024-2025, establishing a formal framework for how the events and impacts of that day are taught to students. The bill seeks to enrich students' understanding of significant historical events and promote a greater appreciation for national history.

Contention

While the bill focuses on history education, it raises discussions regarding how mature topics like terrorism and national tragedy are approached in academic settings. Some educators and parents may debate the appropriateness of certain details for younger students or the potential for such education to shape students' perceptions of national identity and security. Furthermore, while nonpublic schools that do not participate in state-funded programs are encouraged to adopt similar curricula, the bill does not impose a requirement on them, leading to possible disparities in educational experiences.