At the beginning of the fall 2022 term Connecticut will require high schools to offer African-American, Black, Puerto Rican and Latino studies, becoming the first state in the US to do so.
"Increasing the diversity of what we teach is critical to providing students with a better understanding of who we are as a society and where we are going" Gov. Lamont said in a statement about said requirement. He also mentioned that the requirement is "long overdue."
He said that adding this will be an "enormous benefit not only to our black and Latino students but to students of all backgrounds because everyone can benefit from these studies."
Miguel Cardona, the education commissioner of the state, also praised the move saying that 27% of students in the state identify as Hispanic or Latino and 13% identify as Black or African-American.
In Cardona's words "Identities matter, this curriculum acknowledges that by connecting the story of people of colour in the U.S. to the larger story of American history. The fact is that more inclusive, culturally relevant content in classrooms leads to greater student engagement and better outcomes for all."
The course is the result of a state law signed last year which aims to give students a better understanding of how African American, black, Latino and Puerto Rican populations have contributed to the nation’s history.
Last week, the Connecticut State Board of Education approved the curriculum.
The course can be provided next school year and by fall 2022, high schools will be required to offer it.
It is in accordance with the Public Act 19-12 that Gov. Lamont signed last year. The law calls for directing all regional and local boards of education to include an elective course of studies at the high school level that provides students with a better understanding of such studies. They will look at the contributions to US history society economy and culture.
The state bill also requires that Native American history be taught as it was previously just a recommended topic.
State Senator Douglas McCrory said it was a “humbling experience to hear students passionately call for the black and Latino studies curriculum.”
State representative Bobby Sanchez said the year-long study will give “students a more realistic view of their heritage and the many accomplishments of their ancestors.”
"It will lead to better racial relations in our communities and a more inclusive state for our children and theirs. At public hearings, last year students explained how history classes didn't reflect their heritage. Now high schoolers will have that opportunity," said representative Sanchez.
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