Utah Holocaust & Genocide Education Summary
Legal Status
- Mandated by law: No
- Utah has adopted non-binding concurrent resolutions (SCR 001 in 2021 and HCR 012 in 2020), encouraging the State Board of Education and local districts to include Holocaust and genocide instruction [oai_citation:0‡le.utah.gov](https://le.utah.gov/~2021/bills/static/SCR001.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
- These resolutions highlight age-appropriate genocide education beginning as early as 5th grade and continuing through high school
How the Holocaust Appears in Utah’s Standards
- State social studies standards include Holocaust and genocide education from grade 5 through grade 12
- Curriculum integrates discussions on prejudice, bystander roles, and civic responsibility in multiple grade levels
Supplemental Teaching Tools Encouraged
- UEN (Utah Education Network) provides lesson plans, primary sources, survivor testimony resources, and materials aligned with state standards
- Districts are encouraged to use U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum materials, Echoes & Reflections curricula, and local speaker programs
Teaching Notes for Utah Educators
| Area | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Mandated by Law | No – resolutions only (SCR 001, HCR 012) |
| Included in Curriculum | Yes – K–12 social studies include genocide/Holocaust content |
| Grade Levels | Grades 5–12 |
| Instructional Flexibility | High – districts choose materials and scope |
| Professional Development | Provided by UEN and local partners |
Conclusion
While Utah does not legally require Holocaust or genocide education, it formally encourages it through state resolutions passed in 2020 and 2021. State standards and the Utah Education Network support integrated, age-appropriate instruction for grades 5–12, focusing on historical understanding, ethical thinking, and civic awareness. Educators are urged to use a mix of national curricula, survivor testimony, and local materials to create meaningful lessons.