Board postpones decision on Cal State Long Beach dual‑enrollment ethnic‑studies course after trustees and parents raise concerns

District staff proposed a Saturday dual‑enrollment ethnic‑studies course offered through California State University, Long Beach to give eligible juniors and seniors college credit and an on‑ramp toward statewide college requirements. The board heard about the proposed schedule, eligibility criteria and parent‑preview procedures before trustees and public commenters raised concerns about curriculum content and funding.

Board member Brad Beach read from the course description and said the syllabus language included advanced concepts, adding, "This course offers a critical introduction to the major concepts, theories and issues in the study of race," and asked whether that wording equates to critical‑race theory. Dr. Castro and staff said the course is a standard Cal State offering, that parents would preview materials and give permission before enrollment, and that the program is optional and targeted to juniors and seniors who cannot fit the requirement into their regular schedules.

Several trustees and public speakers questioned whether LCFF funds should be used for the program, whether the curriculum might include gender‑studies elements, and how the offering fits with local high‑school‑level ethnic‑studies work. Trustees requested full curriculum materials, parent‑preview protocols and clarity on transferability of credits. After discussion the board voted to postpone the item to allow staff to provide additional documentation and timeline details.

The board’s postponement preserves the option to offer the course in a later term but ensures trustees and parents can review the full curriculum in advance. Staff said they will return with the materials and a recommended timeline for implementation and outreach.