PHX Reporter

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne has raised concerns over the lack of reporting on Holocaust instruction in Arizona schools. According to Horne, only 43 percent of the approximately 750 Arizona districts and charter schools have affirmed that they are teaching about the Holocaust and other genocides as mandated by state law.

Horne is pushing for the passage of legislation, specifically HB 2779, which would strengthen the existing requirement for Holocaust education in schools. He emphasized the importance of this bill, stating, "This bill would require that students in grades 7-12 will have to twice complete a three-day program on the Holocaust and other genocides."

Addressing a specific incident that underscored the importance of proper Holocaust education, Horne mentioned, "After the horrific events of October 7, there was a one-sided pro-Hamas presentation at Desert Mountain High School that produced antisemitism among students and made Jewish students uncomfortable and fearful. If Holocaust studies are presented properly, students will be less gullible to antisemitic presentations."

Horne commended the 322 districts and charters that are currently complying with the law, with many of them dedicating two to four weeks to Holocaust instruction. However, he stressed the necessity of HB 2779 to ensure that all schools are in alignment with the legislative requirements.

In conclusion, Horne reiterated the importance of comprehensive Holocaust education in schools, emphasizing that proper instruction plays a crucial role in combating antisemitism and fostering a more inclusive and informed student body.