Overview:
Colorado has enacted a new law requiring K-12 public schools to implement standardized Black history education as part of the state’s social studies curriculum by 2028.
In early June, Governor Jared Polis signed into law legislation to establish statewide Black history education standards in Colorado’s public K-12 schools.
HB25-1149, sponsored by Representative Regina English, D-Colorado Springs, and Senator Tony Exum, Sr., D-Colorado Springs, requires the Colorado Department of Education to develop a standard K-12 curriculum for Black history and cultural studies with support from a 17-member advisory committee.
“Black history is American history, and without a Comprehensive Black history curriculum in our public schools, students aren’t receiving the full scope of achievements and contributions of Black Americans,” said English. “We can help our students achieve a well-rounded education by developing and standardizing a comprehensive Black history curriculum in Colorado’s public schools. From politics to engineering, Black Americans’ contributions to society are vast. Our law helps ensure that students learn about the influential Black leaders who changed the course of history and our nation.”
“Here in Colorado, we understand the importance of teaching a full, honest history – one that recognizes the achievements, contributions, and experiences of Black Americans,” said Exum. “Implementing a standardized Black history curriculum in our public schools ensures that students of all races and backgrounds receive a more complete education that prepares them to be informed, engaged citizens and honors the extensive contributions of Black Americans in shaping our state and nation.”
Once approved by the Colorado Board of Education, public K-12 schools will be required to adopt the new Black history education standards into their curriculum as part of the state’s social studies standards revision cycle, which is scheduled to conclude in 2028.
