SB 1026

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. The bill requires school boards, independent charter schools, and private schools to 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.