Missouri Senate Bill SB645

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/22
• Refer: 1/10/22

Caption

Modifies and creates provisions regarding the use of certain training, instructional, and curricular materials in public schools and charter schools

Impact

The introduction of SB 645 is poised to significantly impact the landscape of public education in Missouri. By reinforcing the role of local school boards in adopting their curricula, the bill attempts to prevent any mandate from state education agencies concerning curriculum choices. On the other hand, the legislation introduces requirements for schools to display pertinent information about their instructional materials and any training related to diversity, equity, and inclusion prominently on school websites. This is intended to promote transparency but raises concerns regarding the additional administrative burden it may create for districts.

Summary

Senate Bill 645, introduced by Senator Koenig, aims to modify existing provisions relating to the use of training, instructional, and curricular materials in public schools and charter schools in Missouri. This bill repeals sections 160.516 and 170.011 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri (RSMo), instituting new guidelines that local school districts must follow regarding curriculum approval, implementation, and transparency in the educational content provided to students. The bill seeks to ensure that school boards retain authority over curriculum decisions while establishing stricter accountability measures for transparency with respect to the instructional materials used in classrooms as well as staff training related to diversity and inclusion topics.

Contention

The bill has been met with a mixed response in discussions surrounding its implications. Proponents argue that it empowers local educational authorities, allowing them to better cater the curriculum to the needs of their communities. However, critics are worried that the bill might close the door on addressing significant social issues through education, as it restricts discussions around race and equity by disallowing the teaching of concepts that could be perceived as divisive. This contention reflects a broader national debate on how educational content is shaped and the role of systemic inequality in curriculum considerations, highlighting ongoing tensions about educational equity and the importance of diverse perspectives in learning environments.