This bill mandates the inclusion of education on the Holocaust, the genocide of Indigenous Peoples, and other genocides in the social studies curriculum for middle and high school students in Minnesota. It establishes a new section in the Minnesota Statutes, specifically section 120B.25, which outlines the definitions of key terms related to genocide studies and sets forth requirements for school districts to offer this education by the 2025-2026 school year. The curriculum must cover various historical genocides, analyze their impacts, and evaluate responses to these human rights violations. Additionally, public schools are encouraged to incorporate relevant cultural and historical context into their English language arts curriculum.
To support the implementation of this educational requirement, the bill creates a Working Group on Education on the Holocaust, Genocide of Indigenous Peoples, and Other Genocides. This group will advise the commissioner of education, develop necessary resources, and provide professional learning opportunities for educators. The working group will consist of a diverse range of members, including representatives from educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and experienced teachers. The bill also includes appropriations for the Department of Education to facilitate the working group's activities and the implementation of the educational requirements, with a base funding of $75,000 for professional learning grants in fiscal year 2026.