Ethnic Studies

What is Ethnic Studies?

The Ethnic Studies Model Curriculum and The History Social–Science Framework for California Public Schools, Kindergarten through Grade Twelve, defines Ethnic Studies as:

Ethnic Studies is an interdisciplinary field of study that encompasses many subject areas, including history, literature, economics, sociology, anthropology, and political science. It emerged both to address content considered missing from traditional curricula and to encourage critical engagement.

As a field, Ethnic Studies seeks to empower all students to engage socially and politically and to think critically about the world around them. It is important for Ethnic Studies courses to document the experiences of people of color so that students can construct counter-narratives and develop a more complex understanding of the human experience. Through these studies, students should develop respect for cultural diversity and recognize the advantages of inclusion.

Is Ethnic Studies required?

Yes, Assembly Bill 101 amends California Education Code sections 51225.3 and 51226.7 and stipulates that schools integrate the Ethnic Studies curriculum:

Starting in the 2025-26 school year, LEAs, including charter schools, must offer students in grades 9-12 at least one course in Ethnic Studies.
Beginning with students in grades 9-12 who are graduating in 2029-30, students must complete a course in Ethnic Studies to graduate from high school.

Ethnic Student Pathways

Pathways for fulfilling the requirement:

Option 1 Pathway: U.S. History with Integrated Ethnic Studies

Junior Year: Students must complete 2 Springs’ US History Opts identified as meeting Ethnic Studies requirements

Outcome 1: Historical Context

Debating American Ideals: What does it mean to live in a society founded on the promise that “all men are created equal”? This opt examines the evolving understanding of America’s founding ideals—Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness—by analyzing the historical context of key events and figures. We will explore how different groups of people have contributed to and challenged these ideals from 1776 to the present, highlighting the struggles, successes, and ongoing debates that define the American experience.

Outcome 2: Multiple Points of View

Are We There Yet? Anyone who has ever been on a road trip can relate to asking the question, “Are we there yet?” Usually, we ask it after growing restless from the journey. When studying history, we can ask the same question: Have we arrived at a better understanding of the past? Have we learned from previous mistakes, or are we repeating dangerous patterns? In this opt, we’ll explore the last 50 years of the 19th century to examine how different groups of people were treated during this time. By analyzing their historical experiences, we’ll connect lessons from the past to current issues, asking: What have we learned, and how are we doing things differently today? So, buckle up, and get ready to dive into history, reflect on its lessons, and answer the question: Are we there yet?

Option 2 Pathway: College Enrollment Only

Barstow Community College Enrollment: Choose 1 course from the list below

ETHN 1: Introduction to Ethnic Studies
This course provides a multidisciplinary introduction to and analysis of ethnic groups in the United States. Students will apply various theories and perspectives to develop a comprehension of the effects of institutional racism, economic and environmental marginalization, and socioeconomic and political discrimination on American ethnic and racial groups. Emphasis on Native, African, Latinx, and Asian American cultural experiences.

ETHN 5: Introduction to the Latinx Experience
This course surveys the social, political, economic, and cultural development and experience of the various Latin Americans in the United States. The survey includes the following groups: Mexicans, Puerto Ricans, Cubans, and other Caribbean people, Central and South Americans. The course also analyzes the contributions made by the Latin Americans to the economic development of the North American society.

ETHN 6: Introduction to African American Studies
A critical examination of African American history and historiography covering the colonial period through the opening of the 21st century. We will trace the African American experience from its West African roots, through the trauma of the Atlantic slave trade, and the struggle of a people to create culture and community under the brutal conditions of American slavery. Following an overview of the Civil War and Reconstruction, students will analyze the rise of “Jim Crow,” black migration, and urbanization over the course of two world wars and the continuing influence of African Americans on the politics and culture of the United States.

Ethnic Studies Student Student Pathways

Community Feedback

As Springs Charter continues to develop our Ethnic Studies course offerings, we welcome parents, staff, students, and community members to provide feedback.

Student/Parent/Community Form

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ethnic Studies?
The preface of California Department of Education’s Ethnic Studies Model Curriculum states that it will: “focus on the traditional ethnic studies . . . which has been characterized by four foundational disciplines: African American, Chicana/o, Native American, and Asian American and Pacific Islander studies. The focus on the experiences of these four disciplines provides an opportunity for students to learn of the histories, cultures, struggles, and contributions to American society of these historically marginalized peoples which have often been untold in US history courses.”

Is my student required to take Ethnic Studies?

Assembly Bill 101 amended:

California Education Code section 51225.3, and
California Education Code section 51226.7

Starting in the 2025-26 school year, LEAs, including charter schools, must offer students in grades 9-12 at least a course in ethnic studies.

Starting with students in grades 9-12, who are graduating in 2029-30, students must complete a course in ethnic studies in order to graduate from high school.

Can students opt out of Ethnic Studies?
Until the graduating class of 2030, students who wish to opt out of Ethnic Studies can choose a United States History option that does not include Ethnic Studies outcomes. However, beginning with the graduating class of 2030, Ethnic Studies will become a mandatory graduation requirement with no opt-out option available.

Are there U.S. History options without Ethnic Studies?
Yes, there are specific U.S. History options that do not include Ethnic Studies outcomes. Students can choose these options to earn United States History credit.

What are the Ethnic Studies Outcomes?

Pursuit of Justice and Equality
Furthering Self-Understanding
Recognizing Intersectionality
Supporting a Community Focus
Working Towards Greater Inclusivity
Developing a Greater Understanding of Others
Promoting Self-Empowerment for Civic Engagement
Developing Interpersonal Communication

Are the teachers being trained in Ethnic Studies to teach this course?
Yes, History Department staff have participated in—and will continue to participate in—training to ensure that students receive a high-quality education focused on using primary sources to explore the diverse voices and experiences of people from the founding of America to the modern day.

What Ethnicities or Races Are Being Covered in the Integrated United States History Course?
African American, Chicana/o, Native American, and Asian American and Pacific Islander studies.

Is Ethnic Studies the same as Critical Race Theory (CRT)?
No. Critical Race Theory, or CRT, is an academic and legal framework that denotes that systemic racism is part of American society, from education and housing to employment and healthcare. Critical Race Theory recognizes that racism is more than the result of individual bias and prejudice.

Will There Be More Course Offerings with Ethnic Studies?
That is a possibility! Springs loves to offer choices. We believe Ethnic Studies melds well with English and Art, so those content areas are being explored.