Gervin-Hawkins Bill Adds Bias Lessons To Every Social Studies Grade

The text as introduced · 421 words

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.