By: Gervin-Hawkins H.B. No. 153
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to the inclusion of instruction regarding culturally
inclusive curriculum reflecting the cultural, linguistic and
religious diversity of society.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. This Act may be cited as the Cultural Inclusion
Act.
SECTION 2. Subchapter A, Chapter 28, Education Code, is
amended by adding Sec. 28.021 to read as follows:
Sec. 28.021. INSTRUCTION REGARDING CULTURALLY INCLUSIVE
CURRICULUM.
(a) In this section:
(1) "Board" means the State Board of Education
(2) "Agency" means the Texas Education Agency.
(b) The board, agency, and stakeholders shall enter into a
memorandum of understanding that establishes the respective
responsibilities in developing instruction, including curriculum
and instructional modules, on culturally inclusive curriculum
reflecting the cultural, linguistic and religious diversity of
society. The instruction must include information regarding:
(1) Fostering each child's sense of self-identity;
(2) Fostering acceptance of diversity among people by
allowing children to ask about and explore the differences;
(3) Encouraging critical thinking about bias by
helping children to identify acts of discrimination and stereotypic
images in their world;
(4) Encouraging empathy towards others; and
(5) Fostering each child's ability to stand up for
themselves and others in the face of bias.
(c) In developing the instruction under this section, the
board and the agency may consult with any interested party,
including a volunteer work group convened for the purpose of making
recommendations regarding the instruction.
(d) Before finalizing any instruction under this section,
the board and the agency shall provide a reasonable period for
public comment.
(e) Subject to rules adopted by the board, a school district
or open-enrollment charter school may tailor the instruction
developed under this section as appropriate for the district's or
school 's community. In tailoring the instruction, the district or
school shall solicit input from local law enforcement agencies,
interested stakeholders, and the community.
SECTION 3. This Act takes effect September 1, 2021.