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 curriculum reviews.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a system for annual monitoring and evaluation of school district compliance with the new curricular requirements, starting in the 2025-26 school year. It also outlines the need for the office of the superintendent of public instruction to report on recommendations for compensating tribes that provide expertise and consultation, with a focus on those whose traditional lands included parts of Washington but now reside in neighboring states. The bill includes specific reporting requirements and establishes expiration dates for certain provisions, ensuring accountability and ongoing assessment of the implementation of these educational initiatives.

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