Vetoed by Governor Gavin Newsom

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to concur with Senate amendments and pass a bill that establishes one credit of racial and ethnic studies as a high school graduation requirement.

Highlights:

• Requires a student to complete the following between grades 9 and 12 prior to graduation (Sec. 1&2):

• 3 courses in English;

• 2 courses in mathematics;

• 2 courses in science;

• 3 courses in social studies;

• One course in visual or performing arts, world language, or career technical education;

• 2 courses in physical education; and

• Beginning with students graduating in the 2029-2030 school year, a one-semester course in ethnic studies which must be appropriate, unbiased, and not promote religious doctrine.

• Requires ethnic studies courses to be taught as part of a course approved and meeting the requirements of the University of California and California State University, or a locally developed ethnic studies course approved by the governing board of the school district (Sec. 2).

• Authorizes the governing board with the active involvement of parents, administrators, teachers, and pupils to adopt alternative means for pupils to complete the prescribed course of study (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text