Texas board to consider American Indian, Native and Asian American studies course in April after public push

The Texas State Board of Education was told Friday that the Texas Education Agency has received an application to renew and advance an American Indian and Native Studies innovative high‑school course and will present that application to the committee for consideration at the board's April meeting, agency staff said after a lengthy public comment session.

Advocates and educators told the board during public testimony that immediate renewal and prompt TEKS consideration are needed so teachers and districts that have piloted the course can plan for the next school year and to ensure students see themselves reflected in curriculum. "I'm here today to urge board members to get curious about what is missing from our curriculum and to hear the discussion to adopt the American Indian native studies and Asian American studies course this year," said Alexia Lechler, an educator and cofounder of the nonprofit Start Empowerment.

Testimony and why it matters

Supporters — including former teachers, parents, university faculty and students who participated in pilot classes — told the board the course improves attendance and academic outcomes and helps students understand the history of indigenous peoples.…