Orange County rejects controversial ethnic studies curriculum

In a recent government meeting, a significant discussion emerged regarding the development of a new ethnic studies curriculum for Orange County. A member of the council expressed strong disapproval of the existing curriculum proposed by the Liberated Ethnic Studies Model Curriculum Consortium, citing concerns over its portrayal of societal roles, specifically the division between \"oppressors\" and \"the oppressed.\"

The council member emphasized the qualifications of local staff to create a historically accurate curriculum tailored to the needs of the community. Highlighting the absence of a mandated curriculum for the Access Program in California, the member proposed that Orange County take the initiative to develop its own curriculum. This new curriculum would not only serve the 28 school districts and charter schools in the county but could also be shared with other districts across California and potentially nationwide.

The proposal aims to establish a vision for ethnic studies that aligns with the values of the community, moving away from what was described as an unacceptable framework. The council member urged colleagues to support the initiative and instructed Dr. Bean to direct staff to begin the curriculum development process. The meeting underscored a commitment to creating educational materials that reflect the community's perspective and needs.