Map shows which states require schools to teach about 9/11

As the U.S. prepares for the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, Associated Press research finds that at least 40 states have policies requiring or encouraging public schools to address 9/11. AP reports that 25 states have laws or education standards that specifically require or expect instruction on the attacks, while 13 others include optional references in guidance. Additional states may require or recommend observances such as moments of silence, bringing the total to at least 40. With roughly one-third of Americans born after Sept. 11, education experts say many students lack direct emotional or personal connection, making teaching 9/11 increasingly dependent on historical framing.