The New Jersey Senate Education Committee moved a bill sponsored by Angela McKnight (D-31) and Brian Stack (D-33) that would require classroom instruction on Latino and Hispanic American History as part of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
Specifically, Bill S-2335 would require the state Board of Education to adopt NJSLS in Social Studies and English Language Arts on Latino and Hispanic American History.
“Nearly one-quarter of New Jerseyans identify as Hispanic or Latino, as does a large portion of my district,” Stack, also the Union City mayor, said in a statement.
“It is important for students to see themselves and the diverse community around them reflected in their school’s curriculum. Providing classroom instruction on Latino and Hispanic American history will only enrich New Jersey’s public schools even further.”
The Commissioner of Education, in consultation with the Commission on Latino and Hispanic Heritage, would provide school districts with sample learning activities and resources that may be used to support this instructional requirement.
“Crafting a diverse curriculum in New Jersey public schools is imperative if we wish to achieve a more inclusive future,” noted McKnight, who sits on the education committee.
“The contributions of Hispanics and Latinos to our State and Country are great, and should be a part of every classroom.”
The bill advanced out of committee in a unanimous (5-0) vote.
