Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Available On Air Stations
Watch Live

KPBS Midday Edition

A Draft Of California's Ethnic Studies Curriculum Stirs Controversy

A poster with images of people and leaders from different ethnic backgrounds was displayed at a Lincoln High School meeting of San Diego teachers who back promoting ethnic studies in schools, May 19, 2015.
Marielena Castellanos
A poster with images of people and leaders from different ethnic backgrounds was displayed at a Lincoln High School meeting of San Diego teachers who back promoting ethnic studies in schools, May 19, 2015.
Public comment for a draft of the state's ethnic studies curriculum proposal ends Thursday. Meanwhile, state lawmakers are debating whether to make ethnic studies a high school graduation requirement.

A draft of California’s ethnic studies curriculum proposal is out and critics are calling for changes.

The Legislative Jewish Caucus sent a letter to state education officials criticizing the curriculum for failing to include the Jewish experience and anti-semitism. Other critics believe the curriculum is politically motivated. Supporters of ethnic studies point to research, which suggests such courses could have a positive impact on students and help improve academic performance.

The public comment period on the curriculum ends Thursday. Meanwhile, state lawmakers are debating whether to make ethnic studies a high school graduation requirement.

Advertisement

Nina Agrawal, an education reporter with the Los Angeles Times, joined Midday Edition on Wednesday to discuss the controversy over the proposal.

Red or blue? The County Supervisor District 1 Special Election could shift the balance of power. Get live returns, plus the latest news and analysis.