Social studies high school graduation requirements; revise.
The bill mandates the State Department of Education to develop or approve an integrated civic education curriculum that is to be utilized from Kindergarten through Grade 12. This curriculum is expected to foster civic responsibility, understanding citizen rights and responsibilities, and encourage participation in government at all levels. Additionally, it aims to cultivate an understanding of advocacy before government bodies, which is crucial for effective civic engagement. The inclusion of oral history resources as part of the curriculum is designed to deepen students' understanding of patriotism and political philosophies through personal narratives.
Senate Bill 2684 seeks to enhance the civic education curriculum across Mississippi schools by revising the social studies graduation requirements for high school students. Starting from the 2022-2023 academic year, students will be required to earn three credits in social studies, which includes one credit each in United States History, World History, and a combined credit of Economics and United States Government. This bill places a significant emphasis on teaching comparative political ideologies relevant to American democracy, specifically contrasting it with ideologies such as communism and totalitarianism.
A notable point of contention surrounding SB2684 revolves around the emphasis on specific political ideologies, which some critics argue may influence the objectivity of education in public schools. There are concerns about how these ideologies will be taught and whether it will lead to a biased curriculum. Additionally, debates may arise regarding local school districts’ autonomy to create and implement their own curricula versus adhering strictly to state-developed guidelines, specifically regarding the approval process for local curricula under the bill.