Bosley proposes two graduation units — Black history and Black literature — and draws support and policy questions
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Summary
Representative LaKesha Bosley presented House Bill 2,965 to require one unit of Black history and one unit of Black literature for Missouri high school graduation beginning in 2026–27; committee members supported the aim but raised concerns about credit requirements and transfer-student waivers.
Representative LaKesha Bosley told the House Committee on Elementary and Secondary Education she drafted House Bill 2,965 to ensure Missouri students graduate with both a unit of Black history and a unit of Black literature, to be implemented beginning in the 2026–27 school year with standards and a model curriculum developed by the State Board of Education.
"This bill ensures that beginning in the school year of 2026 to 2027, Missouri students will complete 1 unit of black history and 1 unit of black literature prior to graduation with the standards and a model of curriculum developed by the state board of education," Bosley said, framing the measure as a way to give students a fuller, more accurate understanding of American history and to strengthen literacy and civic preparation.
Committee members largely praised the bill’s intent but pressed sponsors on details. Vice Chair Bannerman raised a practical concern about graduation credits, asking whether the bill would require two year-long classes and whether a student who failed either course would be barred from graduating. Bannerman said: "So that's 2 different classes, both year long classes... And if they don't pass those classes, they won't graduate." Bosley replied that summer school and local waivers could address transfer students and make-up needs, but members advised clearer statutory language to avoid unintended obstacles for students who transfer into Missouri.
Members also discussed whether the requirement should be framed as new required credits or whether the curriculum could be integrated into existing social-studies credits so that all students receive the content without increasing total graduation credits. Bosley said she was open to options that would preserve universal exposure while minimizing burdens on districts and students and cited other states' varied approaches.
Sharon Goway Jones of the Missouri State Conference of the NAACP testified in support, urging the committee to ensure standards are in place. No opposition witnesses were recorded. The committee concluded the public hearing without taking a vote on the bill; the sponsors and members indicated they would consider drafting clarifications on waivers and credit language as the measure proceeds.
