Missouri House Bill HB2456

Missouri 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/24
• Refer: 5/17/24

Caption

Requires the department of elementary and secondary education to develop a curriculum on Black history and Black literature to be used by school districts

Impact

The implementation of HB 2456 would significantly influence education standards and content delivered in K-12 schools throughout the state. By requiring a dedicated focus on Black history and literature, the bill seeks to rectify historical educational gaps where the contributions of Black individuals have been underrepresented. This addition is expected to promote inclusivity within the educational framework, fostering an environment where all students can learn about a more comprehensive history that includes diverse perspectives.

Summary

House Bill 2456 mandates the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to create a curriculum that focuses on Black history and Black literature for use in public school districts. This initiative aims to enhance the educational experience by diversifying the curriculum and ensuring that students receive a comprehensive understanding of the contributions and experiences of Black individuals throughout history. The proposed curriculum is intended to be integrative and applicable across various subjects, providing a richer context for students in their learning environment.

Contention

While many educators and advocacy groups support the bill as a necessary step toward equitable education, some concerns have been raised about its practical implementation. Critics may argue about the challenges associated with developing a new curriculum, including potential resistance from stakeholders who may not prioritize these subjects or the availability of resources needed for training educators to successfully implement the new standards. Furthermore, debates may arise regarding the interpretation of Black history and literature and the best approaches for teaching these subjects in a respectful and accurate manner.