Idaho Holocaust Education Summary
Legal Status
- Mandated by law: No
- As of 2025, Idaho has not formally mandated Holocaust education in state law
- A House concurrent resolution (HCR 25) encourages the Idaho Department of Education to adopt age-appropriate Holocaust instruction, development of classroom resources, and educator guidance
How the Holocaust Appears in Idaho’s Standards
Middle & High School (Grades 7–12)
- Holocaust education is encouraged but not required
- Curriculum recommendations include studying prejudice, racism, intolerance, and genocide, with potential inclusion of survivor testimony and historical context
Supplemental Teaching Tools Encouraged
Educators may enhance instruction with resources such as:
- Wassmuth Center for Human Rights materials (Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial)
- Echoes & Reflections curriculum
- U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum resources
- Survivor testimony and primary source documents
Teaching Notes for Idaho Educators
| Area | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Mandated by Law | No |
| Included in Curriculum | Encouraged via resolution, not required |
| Grade Levels | Middle and high school (grades 7–12) |
| Instructional Flexibility | High – districts are encouraged to adopt Holocaust instruction voluntarily |
| Professional Development | Supported indirectly; resources suggested but not state-funded |
Conclusion
While Idaho does not legally require Holocaust education, state leaders encourage its inclusion through a legislative resolution urging the Department of Education to provide guidance and classroom materials. Schools and educators are recommended to adopt age-appropriate study of the Holocaust—covering historical, ethical, and civic dimensions—using available resources such as the Wassmuth Center, Echoes & Reflections, and survivor testimony.