AB 273

This bill requires the state superintendent of public instruction, in

collaboration with certain organizations specified in the bill, to develop a model

curriculum for all grades, from kindergarten to 12, on African American history that

does all of the following:

1. Includes developmentally appropriate instruction in the history of African

Americans in the United States in general, and in this state in particular, and

incorporates that history into the broader context of national and state history.

2. Includes instruction in the experiences of African Americans in, and the

contributions of African Americans to, the origins and development of the United

States and this state.

3. Includes instruction in the anthropological migration of people into this

state.

4. Includes tools to help pupils analyze history as a means to understand

current events and envision a positive multicultural society.

5. Specifies the essential knowledge and associated performance standards

regarding African American history that are incorporated into the social studies

curriculum in each grade.

The bill also requires the state superintendent to incorporate African American

history instruction that is consistent with the model curriculum into the model

academic standards for social studies. Public schools, independent charter schools,

and private schools must include in their social studies curriculum for every grade,

from kindergarten to 12, instruction in African American history that is consistent

with the model curriculum. Under the bill, DPI must employ three education

consultants to assist schools with updating curriculum and providing African

American history instruction.

Finally, under the bill, the state superintendent may not grant a teaching

license unless the applicant has received instruction in African American history

that is consistent with the model curriculum.