Kevin Dehmer Commissioner Department of Education | New Jersey Department of Education
Governor Phil Murphy has signed legislation that mandates the inclusion of Latino and Hispanic history in the social studies curriculum for New Jersey K-12 schools. The bill requires the State Board of Education to update the New Jersey Student Learning Standards (NJSLS) in Social Studies so that students learn about the contributions, history, and heritage of Latino and Hispanic people.
The new law specifies that instruction must be historically accurate, culturally relevant, community-based, and appropriate for students’ developmental levels. School districts are required to begin implementing these standards in the 2026–2027 academic year as part of their NJSLS compliance.
“Through today’s bill signing, we are cementing the legacy of New Jersey’s Latino and Hispanic communities,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “I am especially proud to sign this bill during Hispanic Heritage Month, ensuring that the contributions of our Hispanic and Latino communities are taught in our nation-leading public education system. By teaching students about their neighbors, we are raising a more informed next generation of future leaders in the Garden State.”
New Jersey Department of Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer stated: “New Jersey’s learning standards require instruction that reflects the diversity of our communities and our cultural heritage. Codifying Hispanic and Latino history instruction into law is an important extension of that commitment. The Department will work in partnership with the Commission on Latino and Hispanic Heritage to provide districts with resources that support effective implementation of this requirement, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive understanding of our collective history.”
The Commissioner of Education will collaborate with the Commission on Latino and Hispanic Heritage to offer school districts sample activities and resources to help meet these new requirements.
Legislators who sponsored or supported S2335/3096/A3871 include Senators M. Teresa Ruiz, Brian Stack, Angela McKnight; Assemblymembers Julio Marenco, Eliana Pintor Marin, Carmen Theresa Morales, and Annette Quijano.
Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz noted research by Johns Hopkins University indicating most key topics in Latino history are either omitted or barely mentioned in textbooks. She said: “A study by Johns Hopkins University found that 87% of ‘key topics in Latino history’ are either left out of textbooks entirely or reduced to fewer than five sentences, leaving a profound gap in the story of America. Latinos have been at the forefront of shaping this country since its earliest days — fighting in every war, marching for civil rights, and using our talents to build businesses and drive the economy forward. Our children deserve to see that history reflected accurately and Latinos represented in exceptional spaces. This legislation will diversify our curriculum and shine a light on the contributions of Latinos — the artists, scientists, athletes, public servants, and countless others — who have left an indelible mark on our nation."
Senator Brian Stack highlighted demographic changes: "Nearly one-quarter of New Jerseyans identify as Hispanic or Latino, as does a large portion of my district," he said. "It is important for students to see themselves and the diverse community around them reflected in their school's curriculum. Providing classroom instruction on Latino and Hispanic American history will only enrich New Jersey's public schools even further."
Other lawmakers echoed support for inclusivity within education:
Senator Angela McKnight said: “Crafting a diverse curriculum in New Jersey public schools is imperative if we wish to achieve a more inclusive future... I thank Governor Murphy for his commitment to ensuring our children learn the rich history of all the beautiful people, cultures, and stories that surround us.”
Assemblyman Julio Marenco emphasized representation: “Representation matters... By integrating Latino and Hispanic American history into the core curriculum... These stories are New Jersey’s stories..."
Assemblywoman Eliana Pintor Marin added: “A3871 will help Latino and Hispanic children see themselves reflected in the history they learn... Representation matters..."
Assemblywoman Carmen Morales stated: “As an educator... This bill closes that gap by making contributions... part of fundamental history lessons every New Jersey student receives.”
Assemblywoman Annette Quijano remarked: “The contributions ... are intricately woven into ... but too often underrepresented ... With this legislation ... honoring legacy ...”
Advocacy groups also responded positively:
Roman Palomares (LULAC): “LULAC proudly supports Senate Bill 2335 because every student deserves to see contributions ... reflected ... This bill ensures pride ... representation..."
Anita Teekah (LatinoJustice PRLDEF): "At a time when there are ongoing efforts to silence ... including Latino history ... making sure every student sees a fuller picture..."
Patricia Mota (HACE): "...signing S2335 extends vision into classrooms..."
Janet Murguía (UnidosUS): "...Integrating Latino history into New Jersey’s state educational standards is a powerful step toward telling a more accurate account..."
Steve Beatty (NJEA): “…Latino & Hispanic history is an inextricable part … Understanding … is important … This new law will help us do that…”
Jennifer S. Higgins (AFTNJ): “…well-rounded education… long-overdue addition…”
Dr. Timothy Purnell (NJSBA): “…contributions…enrich…diversity…representation…”
Karen Bingert (NJPSA): “…applauds today’s signing…school leaders look forward…”
Betsy Ginsburg (Garden State Coalition): “…brings Hispanic heritage into focus…”
Dr. Jesselly de La Cruz (Latino Action Network Foundation): “…historic step forward…affirms identity…”
Frank Argote-Freyre (Latino Action Network Foundation): “…honors its cultural diversity…acknowledge those contributions…”
Natalie Hernandez (Garden State Equality Project Manager): “…important step ensures youth can finally see themselves reflected…”
Kani Ilangovan MD (E Pluribus Unum Project): “…inclusive curriculum…children value one another more…”
These curricular changes will be incorporated during an ongoing review process for NJSLS Social Studies standards.
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