Missouri Senate Bill SB21

Missouri 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/25
• Refer: 1/16/25

Caption

Requires the State Board of Education to convene a work group to develop a curriculum framework of instruction on the dehumanization of marginalized groups

Impact

By mandating the inclusion of this curriculum in schools, SB21 is set to reshape educational approaches to teaching history and social science in Missouri. The bill establishes a notable focus on the social and ethical implications of dehumanization, promoting awareness and critical thinking among students regarding historical and contemporary issues related to human rights. Moreover, the bill's pilot program will provide resources and professional development for educators, enabling them to effectively deliver these lessons. Starting in the 2028-29 school year, the framework will be made available to all public school districts and charter schools in the state, ensuring widespread accessibility and uniformity in teaching these important topics.

Summary

Senate Bill 21 (SB21) requires the State Board of Education to convene a work group that will develop a comprehensive curriculum framework focusing on the dehumanization of marginalized groups in Missouri. The bill aims to deepen the understanding of key historical injustices, including genocide and slavery, with particular emphasis on age-appropriate instruction for middle and high school students. Topics covered will include the history of marginalized groups, the impacts of dehumanization, and the significance of personal narratives, such as that of Celia, an enslaved woman in Missouri whose story exemplifies the brutal realities of chattel slavery. The curriculum framework will be informed by collaborations with educators and experts in history and social sciences, aiming to create a more informed and empathetic student body.

Contention

While supporters herald SB21 as a progressive step towards genuine education about human rights and historical injustices, some critics have raised concerns about the potential politicization of education. There are worries that the emphasis on dehumanization narratives may lead to controversy or disagreement in how these topics are presented in classrooms. Additionally, the bill could face challenges in implementation, particularly in aligning existing curriculum mandates with the newly developed framework and ensuring that all educators are adequately prepared to teach these sensitive subjects. Nonetheless, the bill represents a significant attempt to advance social consciousness and historical understanding within the educational system.