Students and advocates press for state-supported Asian American history resources and teacher training
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Summary
Delegate Valderrama and student witnesses urged a favorable report on HB1059, which would require MSDE to develop professional development and age-appropriate materials to help teachers incorporate Asian American history into social-studies instruction.
Delegate Jared Valderrama told the committee HB1059 directs the State Department of Education to make professional development and teaching resources available so educators can teach Asian American history accurately and confidently. He said the bill focuses on resources and professional learning rather than mandating curriculum changes.
Students and community advocates gave personal testimony about missing representation in classroom materials. Fifth grader Miles Chen and eighth grader Jasper Chen described having to research prominent Asian Americans themselves and urged lawmakers to make resources available statewide: "Asian American history is American history," Miles Chen said.
Lauren Lam of the Maryland State Education Association and other supporters said the bill helps teachers integrate accurate, age‑appropriate materials and asked for a favorable report. Supporters emphasized distributing materials in May for Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and aligning resources with existing social-studies standards.
The hearing concluded with expressions of support across several delegations; committee members thanked young witnesses and signaled further consideration.
