Board committee recommends renewal of American Indian/Native Studies innovative course after wide public testimony; legal questions noted

The Committee of the Full Board voted on Thursday to recommend that the State Board of Education renew the American Indian and Native Studies innovative course for state credit, advancing the course to full‑board consideration after extensive public testimony and a legal briefing.

The committee’s recommendation passed 9–5 in a roll call after more than a dozen speakers — including tribal citizens, educators, university scholars and a Cherokee student — urged renewal in order to make a dedicated Native studies elective available to Texas students.

Why it matters

The course would be available as a locally offered elective that school districts can adopt for graduation credit. Supporters said the elective fills a gap in K–12 offerings and can increase student engagement and civic knowledge. Opponents and some board members raised concerns about content alignment and whether recently enacted state laws limit how race and related topics may be taught in elective courses.

What public speakers said

- Laura (Yoantlaue) Rio Ramirez, representing Calpulia…