8241 Patriotism, Citizenship and Human Rights Education

2000  8241

Instruction

SUBJECT: PATRIOTISM, CITIZENSHIP AND HUMAN RIGHTS EDUCATION

In order to promote a spirit of patriotic and civil service and obligation, as well as to foster in students of the District moral and intellectual qualities which are essential in preparing them to meet the obligations of citizenship, the Board requires students attending District schools, over the age of eight years, to attend instructional courses in patriotism, citizenship, and human rights issues, with particular attention to the study of the inhumanity of genocide, slavery, the Holocaust, and the mass starvation in Ireland from 1845 to 1850 (the "Irish Potato Famine").

The Board also directs that all students attending District schools in grades eight through twelve receive instruction in the history, meaning, significance and effect of the United States Constitution, the New York State Constitution, and the Declaration of Independence.

The curricula for such courses must include the subjects specified by the Board of Regents and be for the period of instruction, as mandated by the Regents, which is necessary in these subjects in each of the appropriate grades.

One week during each school year a uniform course of exercises shall be provided to teach students, in an age appropriate manner, the purpose, meaning and importance of the Bill of Rights Articles in the United States and New York State Constitutions.  These exercises shall be in addition to the above required courses.

The Board directs that the above named subjects, as mandated by law, be addressed in the instructional curricula provided by the District.

Education Law Section 801

Adopted:  5/8/00