A publication of the Association of California School Administrators
Ethnic studies
Ethnic studies
Districts share best practices for implementing this new graduation requirement
Districts share best practices for implementing this new graduation requirement
March | April 2025
March | April 2025
Transforming education
By Marco A. Villegas and Jazmin Chavez-Diaz
For over a decade, El Rancho Unified School District has been at the forefront of integrating ethnic studies into the curriculum, helping students connect with their heritage and providing local context in meaningful ways.
Building safe and brave spaces
By Toni Presta, Laurie Robinson and Dan Arzaga
What is ethnic studies? Why is it important for our students? What is our role as leaders in supporting ethnic studies? These questions were relevant to the leadership at Jefferson Union High School District as it worked to build a strong foundation for ethnic studies that extends beyond the classroom to influence the culture, curriculum and community engagement throughout our schools.
Locally responsive learning
By Candace Cofield
For Hayward USD, ethnic studies implementation is an opportunity to focus on local stories that resonate with our students. One such example is the incorporation of Russell City, a once-thriving, diverse yet predominantly Black and Latinx community in Hayward that was displaced by urban development in the mid-20th century.
Democratic engagement through ethnic studies
By Emily Bautista
Ethnic studies pedagogy is rooted in a deep understanding of what has created the conditions a community experiences and a sense of agency with applying that knowledge to create change. An LAUSD principal and ethnic studies instructor shares how districts can support ethnic studies implementation with an emphasis on community action.
The California Native American Studies Model Curriculum
By Cutcha Risling Baldy and Maggie Peters
With the release of the NASMC in 2025, California will set a national example for how to teach Native American history and culture by centering a community-informed curriculum that is respectful and impactful for future generations. This article explores the project’s scope, phases, impact and how educational leaders can support its successful implementation.
A six-step guide to implementing ethnic studies
By Carrie Jackson
This article provides a clear, six-step guide to support district-level leaders and administrators as they lead the implementation of ethnic studies programs. These steps are informed by the author's research as a doctoral student and reflect the collective experiences of district leaders from four districts.
The journey towards understanding
By Richard F. Lawrence, Jr.
Bringing an ethnic studies vision to life requires careful planning, collaboration and a steadfast commitment to the students, staff and community. This article explores the journey of Oceanside Unified School District in developing its ethnic studies program and offers key insights on content, pedagogy, professional development and community involvement.
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