This bill establishes the position of Wabanaki studies specialist in the Department of Education to ensure the inclusion of Wabanaki studies in the parameters for essential instruction and graduation requirements and requires the department to provide ongoing funding for the work of the specialist as well as contracted Wabanaki advisors to advance the implementation of the instruction of Wabanaki studies across the State, including funding that school administrative units can apply for to fund Wabanaki studies resources. The bill also directs the State Board of Education to adopt rules to require the completion of a Wabanaki studies component in the qualifications for certifying teachers and requires the department to provide funding for contracted Wabanaki advisors and educators to work with the Wabanaki studies specialist to create and implement short-term courses that must be made available to all teachers throughout the State.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text LD 1474, HP 966: 20-A.4706