New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A3877

Introduced
5/9/22  

Caption

Requires school districts to include information on events of September 11, 2001 as part of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies; requires public schools to hold annual events commemorating September 11, 2001.

Impact

If enacted, A3877 will significantly shape the educational framework within New Jersey schools by incorporating lessons on a pivotal moment in American history. By embedding these topics into the existing standards, the bill aims to foster a generation of students who understand the complexities surrounding September 11 and its long-lasting implications on society. Each public school will also be required to organize annual commemorative events, facilitating opportunities for students to reflect on these events and engage in meaningful discussions related to conflict resolution and cultural acceptance.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3877 mandates that New Jersey school districts include age-appropriate instruction about the events of September 11, 2001, as part of their Social Studies curriculum for students in elementary, middle, and high schools. The bill outlines specific topics to be included in the instruction such as the historical context of the attacks, a timeline of the events, and the heroic actions of first responders. Additionally, it encourages discussions on the impact of these events on terrorism and civil liberties in the post-9/11 era, with a focus on teaching tolerance and understanding among diverse cultures and religions.

Contention

While the bill aims to create a rich educational environment regarding September 11, it may also face scrutiny concerning how to approach such sensitive subjects effectively. Critics might express concerns regarding the balance of perspectives presented, ensuring that the instruction encourages critical thinking without promoting divisive narratives. Furthermore, the requirement for annual commemorative events may lead to debates on the appropriateness of method and execution in different school environments, necessitating guidelines and resources from the Department of Education to aid implementation.

Companion Bills

NJ S713

Same As Requires school districts to include information on events of September 11, 2001 as part of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies; requires public schools to hold annual events commemorating September 11, 2001.

Previously Filed As

NJ A3355

Requires school districts to include information on events of September 11, 2001 as part of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies; requires public schools to hold annual events commemorating September 11, 2001.

NJ S713

Requires school districts to include information on events of September 11, 2001 as part of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies; requires public schools to hold annual events commemorating September 11, 2001.

NJ A1822

Requires school districts to include instruction on racial discrimination and social justice as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies for middle school students.

NJ A3954

Requires school districts to include instruction on significance of Juneteenth Independence Day as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies.

NJ A2006

Requires school districts to include instruction on racial discrimination and social justice as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies for middle school students.

NJ A2475

Requires school districts to include instruction on significance of Juneteenth Independence Day as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies.

NJ A5014

Requires school districts to provide instruction on labor movement as part of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies.

NJ A4646

Requires State Board of Education to evaluate historical events for inclusion in New Jersey Student Learning Standards.

NJ A3222

Requires school districts to include instruction on conflict resolution as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards.

NJ S3670

Requires school districts to provide instruction on labor movement as part of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies.

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