ATLANTA (February 26, 2013) – The Senate passed Senate Bill 68 by a vote of 42 to 8. Sponsored by Sen. William Ligon (R-Brunswick), this bill establishes the week of September 17th as “Celebrate Freedom Week” in Georgia Public Schools. If passed into law, this bill will require at least three hours of related instruction and recitation of important historical writings during the week.
“It is important to provide Georgia students with a solid understanding of our nation’s founding principles and the rights afforded to them through the Constitution, Bill of Rights and the Declaration of Independence,” said Sen. Ligon. “Celebrate Freedom Week” is a great reminder of our nation’s unique history, and I look forward to its favorable consideration in the House.”
According to SB 68, the Department of Education will be required to provide support to teachers and students by creating online resources that provide access to relevant documents and resources. It also requires the Department of Education to complete an online teacher resource page and make it easily available to teachers no later than July 31, 2013.
During Celebrate Freedom Week, students in social studies classes will have the opportunity for a week-long emphasis on the principles that inspired our founding documents and on the founders themselves. Additionally, students will be encouraged to read at least one book that focuses on our nation’s heritage, and schools will be encouraged to display copies or excerpts from important American historical documents.
Senate Bill 68 will now travel to the House of Representatives.
RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
February 26, 2013
For Information Contact:
Jennifer Yarber, Interim Director
Shawna Mercer, Sr. Communications Specialist
Shawna.Mercer@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028