Mississippi House Bill HB666

Mississippi 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/25
• Refer: 1/15/25
• Failed: 2/4/25

Caption

African-American Studies and Racial Diversity; require SDE to develop curriculum for implementation in public high school.

Impact

The inclusion of African-American Studies is intended to enrich the education system by broadening students' perspectives regarding the cultural, historical, and social contributions of people of African descent. The bill seeks to enhance the existing Social Studies Framework by infusing important elements such as the Civil Rights Movement, the post-slavery era, and key historical events, thereby promoting a more inclusive and representative educational experience. This is seen as a critical step in addressing educational disparities and fostering an environment of understanding and respect among diverse student populations.

Summary

House Bill 666 mandates the Mississippi State Board of Education to develop and implement a comprehensive curriculum focusing on African-American Studies and Racial Diversity to be taught in public high schools for students in grades 9 through 12. This initiative aims to educate students on the contributions of African Americans throughout history and the significance of diversity in American culture. The curriculum will not only include historical content but also connect it to contemporary social, economic, and political issues affecting diverse populations today.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 666 include debates over the implementation of such a curriculum in terms of resources, training for educators, and potential pushback regarding the portrayal of sensitive historical issues. Supporters argue that the curriculum is essential for cultivating a comprehensive view of American history, while opponents may raise concerns about the adequacy of the program's development or the necessity of such changes within the current educational framework. Additionally, discussions around the focus and interpretation of African-American history could lead to further debates on educational content across schools in Mississippi.