Massachusetts Panel Proposes Recommendations to Combat Antisemitism in Schools Ahead of New Academic Year
As the new school year approaches, a state commission in Massachusetts has unveiled preliminary recommendations designed to address rising antisemitism in K-12 public schools. Lead by state Sen. John Velis, the commission’s proposals aim to enhance classroom instruction, implement more comprehensive anti-bias training, and foster community engagement.
Velis emphasized the extensive outreach conducted, indicating strong public interest in combating antisemitism. The commission is advocating for the establishment of an Advisory Council on Holocaust and Genocide Education within the next six months to help standardize genocide education, ensuring middle and high schools fulfill legal requirements to teach about the Holocaust.
Recommendations also include creating model curricula by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) focused on antisemitism and Jewish identity, as well as ensuring adequate resources for educators addressing topics related to Israel and Palestine.
In a proactive move, the commission calls for mandatory anti-bias training for school committees and a stronger recognition of Jewish American Heritage Month. New DESE Commissioner Pedro Martinez expressed support for these initiatives, pledging to enhance teaching standards regarding antisemitism.
The report highlights a significant increase in antisemitic incidents in Massachusetts, while also addressing rising concerns related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Critics, including groups like Concerned Jewish Faculty and Staff (CJFS-B) and Together for an Inclusive Massachusetts (TIM), have raised alarms about potential political biases in the commission’s proposals, urging a more inclusive approach to addressing antisemitism alongside broader anti-bias efforts.
House Speaker Ron Mariano praised the commission’s commitment, labeling the recommendations as a critical response to the concerning rise in antisemitism. The final report is set to be released by November 30, with the preliminary recommendations aimed at setting an immediate course of action before the school year begins.
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