New Hampshire Holocaust & Genocide Education Summary
Legal Status
- Mandated by law: Yes
- Required since 2020 under **RSA 193‑E:2‑f** and the state’s administrative code (Ed 306.49), enforced from the 2022–23 school year [oai_citation:0‡law.justia.com](https://law.justia.com/codes/new-hampshire/2023/title-xv/chapter-193-e/section-193-e-2-f/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
- Establishes a commission to study best practices, define curriculum standards, and recommend instructional hours
How the Holocaust Appears in New Hampshire’s Standards
Middle & High School (Grades 8–12)
- Beginning no later than Grade 8, students receive developmentally appropriate instruction on the Holocaust and genocide—including terms, historical facts, and evolving hatred leading to mass violence
- Instruction continues in high school (within a required social studies course), covering causes, individual responsibility, democratic principles, and prevention strategies
- Learning includes primary documents, multimedia, witness testimony, and reflection on civic engagement and moral choices
Supplemental Teaching Tools Encouraged
- Curriculum resources from the NH Commission on Holocaust & Genocide Education
- Materials from Keene State College’s Cohen Center
- U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum & Echoes & Reflections curricula
- Survivor testimony videos and primary source documents
Teaching Notes for New Hampshire Educators
| Area | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Mandated by Law | Yes – RSA 193‑E:2‑f; Ed 306.49; effective 2022–23 |
| Included in Curriculum | Yes – Grades 8–12 required |
| Grade Levels | Middle school (Grade 8) + high school |
| Instructional Flexibility | Medium – Commission sets minimum standards; districts select delivery |
| Professional Development | Commission identifies best practices and in‑service opportunities |
Conclusion
New Hampshire law requires Holocaust and genocide education for students beginning in Grade 8 through high school. Curriculum must include foundational definitions, historical analysis, survivor testimony, and civic engagement, supported by primary sources and structured reflection. A dedicated commission oversees standards, resources, and professional development, ensuring thoughtful, well-grounded instruction.