This bill mandates that school districts in New Jersey include instruction on the history and contributions of Latino and Hispanic Americans in the curriculum for students from kindergarten through 12th grade. This requirement is part of the implementation of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies and English Language Arts. Additionally, the Commissioner of Education, in collaboration with the Commission on Latino and Hispanic Heritage, is tasked with providing school districts with sample learning activities and resources to assist in fulfilling this instructional requirement.
The legislation builds upon existing law, which already requires the Commission on Latino and Hispanic Heritage to develop curriculum guidelines related to the culture, history, and heritage of Latino and Hispanic individuals. However, this bill specifically emphasizes the necessity of including instruction on the history and contributions of Latino and Hispanic Americans, ensuring that it is integrated into the educational framework of New Jersey schools. The act is set to take effect immediately and will first apply to the full school year following its enactment.