Reynolds signs law to require 'Western civilization' be emphasized in social studies class

Iowa will be required to include specific topics and themes in its social studies curriculum under a new law signed by Gov. Kim Reynolds Wednesday.

The state's social studies standards would be required to include instruction on government, civics and "exemplary figures and important events in Western civilization, the United States and the state of Iowa."

It also requires teaching on "the crimes against humanity that have occurred under communist regimes since 1917," in addition to World War II and the Holocaust, the American Revolution and other historical events.

"As part of a broader update to our educational standards designed to promote a deeper understanding of both American civics and Western history, this bill specifically requires that students be taught about the Holocaust," said Reynolds, who signed the bill at Beit Shalom Jewish Community synagogue in Davenport. "It also requires instruction on the broader context of World War II, as well as the significance of ancient Israel.

"At a time when so many young people today fail to learn the lessons of history, this legislation will help to keep Iowa on a different and better path. It will also ensure we provide our students with the foundation necessary to be active participants in our democracy — the best form of government in the world."

More: Iowa lawmakers revive social studies curriculum bill, with focus on 'Western civilization'

House File 2545 made it through much of the legislative process as a bill to conduct a review of the state's standards and curriculum. But in the final days of session, the language prescribing specific curriculum was added by Sen. Brad Zaun, R-Urbandale.

The version of the bill that earlier this session passed the House had curriculum requirements sourced from Civics Alliance, a New York-based group aiming to stop civics education from being turned "into a recruitment tool of the progressive left."

The National Council for the Social Studies, which says it represents more than 10,000 educators, has opposed the Civics Alliance's proposed standards.

Republicans have touted the law as a necessary adjustment to K-12 education in Iowa.

"If you're in America, you need to know our history and our heritage," said Rep. Skyler Wheeler, R-Hull, during debate. "You need to know Western civilization, you need to know the things laid out in this bill."

Democrats, who strongly opposed the measure, unsuccessfully attempted to remove references to "Western civilization" during debate, seeking to replace them with "world civilization." Sen. Molly Donahue, D-Cedar Rapids, said it "is not the job of the Legislature to prescribe curriculum that would limit teachers' time and resources."

Galen Bacharier covers the Statehouse & politics for the Register. Reach him at gbacharier@registermedia.com or (573) 219-7440, and follow him on Twitter @galenbacharier.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Reynolds signs law to require specific topics in Iowa social studies