The bill SB1576 mandates that the State Board of Education (SBE) require instruction on Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander history in common and high schools starting in the 2027-2028 school year. It specifies that school districts and charter schools must consider various aspects of this history and contributions when developing their curricula, including civil rights advancements and contributions in arts, humanities, science, and government. Additionally, the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) is tasked with ensuring that schools attest annually to the systematic implementation of this instruction.

Key changes from current law include the introduction of a specific requirement for Asian American and Pacific Islander history instruction, which was not previously mandated. The bill also shifts the responsibility for including specific content in the curriculum from the SBE to the school districts and charter schools, allowing them to consider the outlined topics rather than imposing a strict requirement. Furthermore, the deadline for ADE to begin requiring annual attestations from schools has been extended from June 14, 2025, to June 14, 2028.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-701.04
Senate Engrossed Version: 15-701.04