OCDE fair to showcase state-approved history and social science instructional materials

Local history and social science educators may want to mark their calendars: OCDE will host a History-Social Science Instructional Materials Fair, showcasing content from the state’s recently-adopted list of approved materials, on Jan. 29.

The event, geared toward administrators, curriculum coordinators, coaches and teachers, will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Building D on OCDE’s main campus, located at 200 Kalmus Drive in Costa Mesa. Guests should register online by Jan. 25.

OCDE sign

In November, the state Board of Education voted to approve new K-8 instructional materials that align with California’s History/Social-Science Curriculum Framework.

State Superintendent Tom Torlakson said students will benefit enormously from the changes. In addition to providing a broader, deeper and more accurate understanding of history and the social sciences, the new materials were designed to promote current research and equip young learners with the critical thinking and research skills to make up their own minds about controversial issues, he said.

“I am proud California continues to lead the nation by teaching history-social science that is inclusive and recognizes the diversity of our great state and nation,” Torlakson said.

Publishers will display and present their state-approved K-8 materials at OCDE’s fair, which will also include an open area featuring instructional and supplemental materials for other grade levels. In addition, publishers will facilitate breakout sessions to review materials.

To learn more, or to register, visit https://ocde.k12oms.org/eventdetail.php?gid=1244&id=139096.