This bill mandates that the State Board of Education adopt New Jersey Student Learning Standards specifically focused on the history and contributions of Latino and Hispanic Americans within the subjects of Social Studies and English Language Arts. It requires school districts to incorporate this instruction into the curriculum for students in grades K-12, ensuring that the contributions of Latino and Hispanic Americans are recognized and taught as part of the educational framework. Additionally, the Commissioner of Education, in collaboration with the Commission on Latino and Hispanic Heritage, is tasked with providing sample learning activities and resources to assist school districts in fulfilling this requirement.

The legislation builds upon existing laws that call for 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 explicitly emphasizes the necessity of including instruction on the history and contributions of these communities in the curriculum, thereby enhancing the educational standards and ensuring that this important aspect of American history is adequately represented in schools. The act is set to take effect immediately, aligning with updates to the New Jersey Student Learning Standards.