Trenton, NJ – A new bill advancing through the New Jersey Legislature would require public schools to teach the history and contributions of Latinos and Hispanics as part of the state’s Social Studies standards, making the subject a permanent part of classroom instruction.

The measure, sponsored by Assemblyman Julio Marenco of Hudson County, Assemblywoman Eliana Pintor Marin of Essex and Hudson, Assemblywoman Carmen Theresa Morales of Essex, and Assemblywoman Annette Quijano of Union, mandates that students from kindergarten through 12th grade learn about Latino and Hispanic heritage. Supporters say the instruction must be historically accurate, culturally relevant, community-based, and developmentally appropriate.

The legislation also directs the State Board of Education to adopt updated New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies reflecting Latino and Hispanic history. The Commissioner of Education, working with the Commission on Latino and Hispanic Heritage, would be tasked with providing school districts sample activities and resources to support the new curriculum.

The bill was released as a substitute version by the Assembly Budget Committee with a long list of co-sponsors, including Assemblywomen McCoy, Hall, Bagolie, Ramirez, Collazos-Gill, Reynolds-Jackson, Carter, Assemblymen Rodriguez, Sampson, Schaer, and Bailey.

If enacted, the requirement would take effect immediately and apply to the first full school year following passage, aligning with each scheduled update of the state’s Student Learning Standards.

New Jersey classrooms are on track to make Latino and Hispanic history part of everyday lessons.

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