Establishes provisions regarding elementary and secondary education
Should SB 770 be enacted, it would significantly influence educational practices in Missouri’s schools by obligating districts to maintain transparency about instructional materials. Additionally, the bill restricts schools from teaching concepts classified as 'divisive', such as critical race theory and those viewpoints that might instigate discomfort related to one's race or sex. This could lead to a sweeping change in how social studies and human rights subjects are taught, focusing more strictly on traditional, bipartisan perspectives.
Senate Bill 770, introduced by Senator Brattin, aims to amend existing Missouri statutes related to elementary and secondary education by establishing the Parents' Bill of Rights Act of 2024. This bill emphasizes the rights of parents regarding their children's education, granting them broad access to educational materials and curricula. Specifically, it mandates that school districts fully disclose curricula, books, and other instructional materials to parents, and facilitates a process for parents to review and object to materials they find inappropriate.
The bill has sparked considerable debate among legislators, educators, and community members. Proponents argue that it reinforces parental control and rights, allowing families to meaningfully engage with their children's education. However, critics contend that it could undermine academic freedom and censor necessary discussions about race and history in American education, leading to a sanitized curriculum. The potential impact on teacher autonomy and the practicality of implementing the mandates regarding curricular transparency have also been points of contention among opponents.