Colorado lawmakers are pushing forward a bill requiring public schools to include more lessons on Black history and culture. The proposed legislation, Comprehensive Black History & Culture Education in K-12, recently passed the House Education Committee with an 8-5 vote along party lines. It now moves to the Appropriations Committee for financial review. If approved, the new curriculum standards would be in place by July 1, 2028.
Key Takeaways
Colorado lawmakers are pushing a bill aimed at enriching Black history education in public schools.
- The bill calls for new curriculum standards for teaching Black history to be developed by July 1, 2028.
- It sets up a 17-member advisory committee tasked with guiding the creation and implementation of these educational materials.
- Supporters claim it will give students a fuller understanding of American history, while opponents express concerns about costs and local decision-making.
Creating an advisory committee
A important part of the bill is the creation of a Black Historical and Cultural Studies Advisory Committee. This 17-member panel will work under the Colorado Department of Education to develop curriculum guidelines and provide support to school districts. The committee will be made up of volunteer educators and experts who will help select appropriate materials for teaching Black history. While members will not receive payment, the estimated cost of running the committee is about $44,000 for the 2025-2026 fiscal year.
Building on past efforts
This bill builds on a 2019 law that required schools to include lessons about underrepresented groups in history and government classes. Supporters say the new legislation will ensure that Black history is fully integrated into classrooms, giving students a more complete understanding of the role Black Americans have played in shaping the country. Representative Regina English, a sponsor of the bill, emphasized the importance of making history lessons inclusive and accurate.
Support and opposition in the legislature
Supporters say the bill ensures students learn a full and accurate history, including Black contributions. They believe it promotes inclusivity in education.
Opponents, mostly Republicans, argue schools should set their own curriculum. Some also worry about costs and see it as part of broader diversity efforts.
Addressing national concerns
The push for this bill comes as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts face increasing scrutiny across the country. Senator Tony Exum, another sponsor, said this legislation is important in making sure students learn about the contributions and experiences of Black Americans, despite the challenges DEI programs are facing at the federal level. Lawmakers and educators believe this move will help create a well-rounded education system that reflects the diversity of American history.
The bill’s next step is a budget review in the Appropriations Committee. If approved, it will move closer to becoming law, ensuring that future generations of Colorado students receive a more accurate and inclusive education.
