Maryland Senate Bill SB837

Maryland 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/6/23

Caption

Education – Curriculum – Study of the Holocaust (Educate to Stop the Hate Act)

Impact

Effective from the 2024-2025 school year, the bill will require all public schools and participating nonpublic schools to implement the enhanced Holocaust instruction as part of their curricula. This includes revisions to the social studies frameworks for various grade levels to incorporate in-depth discussions on the Holocaust, the American response, and the general lessons about discrimination and diversity. Additionally, the bill allocates funding for professional development, indicating a commitment to adequately train educators in delivering this sensitive material.

Summary

Senate Bill 837, known as the 'Educate to Stop the Hate Act,' mandates that the State Department of Education in Maryland develop comprehensive guidelines for teaching about the Holocaust across public and certain nonpublic schools. The bill aims to enhance the existing curriculum and ensure that students understand the historical context, significance, and implications of the Holocaust. It emphasizes the systematic nature of this historical atrocity, aiming to educate students on the roots of antisemitism and the dangers of hatred and prejudice.

Contention

While the intent behind SB837 is to foster understanding and prevent hatred, the legislation may face contention regarding how the Holocaust is taught and the scope of its required lessons. Critics may argue about the appropriateness of content or the balance of historical narratives presented. The push for standardized Holocaust education also raises questions about educational autonomy for nonpublic institutions not participating in state-funded programs. As it stands, the bill highlights the importance of education in combating contemporary misinformation and fostering an inclusive environment in school settings.