89R3720 ANG-F
By: Gervin-Hawkins H.B. No. 659
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to requiring cultural inclusion as part of the social
studies curriculum for public schools.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Section 28.002, Education Code, is amended by
adding Subsection (h-3) to read as follows:
(h-3) In adopting the essential knowledge and skills for the
social studies curriculum for each grade level from kindergarten
through grade 12, the State Board of Education shall adopt
essential knowledge and skills that include the cultural inclusion
curriculum developed under Section 28.0029.
SECTION 2. Subchapter A, Chapter 28, Education Code, is
amended by adding Section 28.0029 to read as follows:
Sec. 28.0029. CULTURAL INCLUSION CURRICULUM. (a) The
State Board of Education shall develop curriculum on cultural
inclusivity that a school district or open-enrollment charter
school shall use in the district's or school's social studies
courses.
(b) The curriculum must encourage:
(1) a student's sense of self;
(2) an acceptance of diversity through the
identification and exploration of differences;
(3) critical thinking about bias through the
identification and exploration of discrimination and stereotypes;
(4) empathy toward others; and
(5) advocating for oneself in the face of bias.
(c) In developing the curriculum under this section, the
State Board of Education shall consult with the agency and
appropriate stakeholders and may create a work group of volunteers
to make recommendations regarding the curriculum.
(d) The State Board of Education, the agency, and
appropriate stakeholders shall enter into a memorandum of
understanding that establishes each entity's respective
responsibilities in developing cultural inclusion curriculum that
reflects the cultural, linguistic, and religious diversity of
society.
(e) Before finalizing the curriculum developed under this
section, the State Board of Education shall provide a reasonable
period for public comment.
(f) Subject to rules adopted by the State Board of
Education, a school district or open-enrollment charter school may
tailor the curriculum 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 the
State Board of Education, the agency, community members, and other
interested individuals or organizations.
SECTION 3. This Act applies beginning with the 2025-2026
school year.
SECTION 4. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives
a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as
provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this
Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this
Act takes effect September 1, 2025.