Utah public classrooms could be required to display an American flag and a copy of the Constitution under a measure that passed the Senate Tuesday that is aimed at making sure students have a proper understanding of American history and government.

But school leaders say that although they are not against the measure, it takes more than a display to ensure kids are properly educated.

SB190 requires public school classrooms in grades 4 through 12 to display the United States flag and a copy of the United States Constitution .

Currently state law requires elementary students to recite the Pledge of Allegiance daily, though parents can excuse children from the exercise. Secondary schools are encouraged to do so weekly.

"The (bill) is both well-intentioned and problematic — the problematic part comes when we think that there are simple answers to the complex challenge of education students about the constitution," said Robert Austin, social studies specialist for the State Office of Education. "It's not as simple as just putting it on the wall ... and I do think that any bill like this will need to be coupled with support for teachers in terms of helping students understand the constitution."

Allen Christensen, R-North Ogden, who sponsored the measure, said he hopes the community will get involved in providing flags for classrooms that don't currently have them as well. He said he would be surprised if veterans don't step in to help.

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However he said copies of the Constitution would be made available by a supplier out of Layton for schools for 50 cents each .

The measure would also require State Board of Education and local school boards shall periodically review school curricula and activities to ensure that effective instruction in American history and government is taking place in the public schools.

"It's a benign bill and if it reminds us that we need to continue this work then that will be one of the best things that will come from this bill — but just because (the Constitution) is there doesn't ensure students know what it means."


E-mail: terickson@desnews.com

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