The bill aims to enhance public school instruction regarding tribal sovereignty and the history and culture of federally recognized Indian tribes in Washington State. It establishes the office of Native education within the office of the superintendent of public instruction, which will be responsible for supporting school districts in meeting the educational needs of American Indian and Alaska Native students. The office will facilitate the development of curricula that include native languages, culture, and the concept of tribal sovereignty, and will provide assistance in acquiring funding for these initiatives. Additionally, the bill mandates that school districts incorporate curricula about the nearest federally recognized Indian tribes by September 1, 2026, and requires collaboration with these tribes during the review and adoption of social studies curricula.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a system for annual monitoring and evaluation of school district compliance with the new curricular requirements, starting in the 2026-27 school year. The state board of education will oversee this process and report on school district compliance from 2027 to 2029. The bill also includes provisions for the office of the superintendent of public instruction to report recommendations for compensating tribes that provide expertise and consultation related to the curriculum. This section will expire on August 1, 2027. Overall, the bill emphasizes the importance of integrating tribal perspectives into education and fostering collaboration between school districts and Indian tribes.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.300.105, 28A.320.170
Substitute Bill: 28A.300.105, 28A.320.170