New Jersey Assembly Bill A4720

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/11/22
• Refer: 10/11/22
• Refer: 2/9/23
• Report Pass: 2/23/23
• Engrossed: 2/27/23
• Enrolled: 3/20/23
• Chaptered: 4/17/23
• Passed: 4/17/23

Caption

Requires Commissioner of Education to distribute survey to school districts regarding instruction on Holocaust and genocides.

Impact

The implementation of A4720 is poised to have a significant impact on state education laws by reinforcing the inclusion of Holocaust and genocide education within the public school curriculum. Schools identified as lacking in meeting these instructional requirements may be required to develop corrective action plans, thereby holding them accountable for their educational standards. This could lead to enhancements in the quality and depth of history education provided to students, ensuring they receive comprehensive knowledge about these critical topics. The bill's focus on educational accountability reinforces the state’s commitment to addressing past atrocities and cultivating an informed and empathetic generation.

Summary

A4720 is a bill enacted in New Jersey that requires the Commissioner of Education, in conjunction with the New Jersey Commission on Holocaust Education, to survey public schools concerning their instruction on the Holocaust and genocides. The primary objective of this bill is to assess how well school districts are adhering to the instruction requirements established by previous laws. The survey will encompass a range of topics, including curriculum content, learning goals, and instructional methods implemented at all grade levels. Following the survey, the Commissioner is expected to report the findings to the Governor and Legislature, providing recommendations if necessary to bolster educational requirements in this area.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding A4720 have generally been positive, with broad support for the emphasis on Holocaust and genocide education. Advocates believe that enhancing awareness and understanding of these tragic events is crucial for preventing their recurrence and fostering tolerance among students. However, some educators and school administrators raised concerns about the feasibility of implementing additional instructional requirements amidst existing curriculum pressures and constraints. Overall, the sentiment appears supportive of the bill's educational objectives but acknowledges the challenges of integrating new requirements into the school systems.

Contention

While A4720 enjoys bipartisan support, some contentious points arise regarding the practicality of the survey and the accountability measures it entails. Critics caution that mandating corrective action plans for those districts that fail to meet instruction standards could foster resistance among educators already adapting to various curricular demands. There is also apprehension about the adequacy of resources and training needed to effectively teach the sensitive subjects of the Holocaust and genocide. These concerns open up discussions about the balance between legislative intentions and the realities faced by educational institutions in New Jersey.