Public invited to review high school ethnic studies course developed for OCDE students, open to all districts

The Orange County Department of Education is inviting the public to review and provide feedback on a newly developed ethnic studies course outline designed primarily for students in its own alternative education programs.

In 2021, California enacted legislation requiring all public high school students to complete a semester-long ethnic studies course as a graduation requirement, beginning with the class of 2030. While districts will have flexibility in how they meet this mandate, the Orange County Board of Education asked OCDE staff to proactively design a course to support students in the department’s ACCESS program, which provides alternative education opportunities countywide.

The board also envisioned the course as a potential resource that could be adopted or adapted by other schools and districts seeking high-quality content.

The result is a draft elective aligned with state expectations and designed to meet the diverse needs of communities in Orange County and beyond. It will be available for the public to preview through May 2.

“We’ve worked thoughtfully to develop an academically sound curriculum that reflects shared values and supports student success by exploring the histories, contributions and experiences of communities that have helped shape our state and nation,” said County Superintendent Dr. Stefan Bean.

“This course is intended to empower students, foster civic responsibility and promote a broader understanding of the American experience through diverse perspectives — not to divide, but to foster respect, connection and unity,” he said.

Inclusive and balanced

Developed by content experts and curriculum writers from OCDE’s Educational Services division — in partnership with ACCESS teachers and leaders — the draft materials include a course overview, five instructional units and a guiding document that defines the course’s purpose and approach. 

OCDE staff, who provided an update to the Orange County Board of Education on Wednesday, say they are sharing the materials as part of a collaborative development process. Public feedback, they say, will help ensure the final version is inclusive, balanced and responsive to the needs of local students and districts.

The course will be available for public review through May 2. Materials may be requested digitally by emailing espublicreview@ocde.us. Community members may also review the materials in person at OCDE’s Argosy Campus, located at 601 S. Lewis St. in Orange.

To learn more or to submit feedback online, visit link.ocde.us/ethnicstudies or click on the graphic below. All submissions will be reviewed carefully and confidentially.