89R3720 ANG-F     By: Gervin-Hawkins H.B. No. 659       A BILL TO BE ENTITLED   AN ACT   relating to requiring cultural inclusion as part of the social   studies curriculum for public schools.          BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:          SECTION 1.  Section 28.002, Education Code, is amended by   adding Subsection (h-3) to read as follows:          (h-3)  In adopting the essential knowledge and skills for the   social studies curriculum for each grade level from kindergarten   through grade 12, the State Board of Education shall adopt   essential knowledge and skills that include the cultural inclusion   curriculum developed under Section 28.0029.          SECTION 2.  Subchapter A, Chapter 28, Education Code, is   amended by adding Section 28.0029 to read as follows:          Sec. 28.0029.  CULTURAL INCLUSION CURRICULUM. (a)  The   State Board of Education shall develop curriculum on cultural   inclusivity that a school district or open-enrollment charter   school shall use in the district's or school's social studies   courses.          (b)  The curriculum must encourage:                (1)  a student's sense of self;                (2)  an acceptance of diversity through the   identification and exploration of differences;                (3)  critical thinking about bias through the   identification and exploration of discrimination and stereotypes;                (4)  empathy toward others; and                (5)  advocating for oneself in the face of bias.          (c)  In developing the curriculum under this section, the   State Board of Education shall consult with the agency and   appropriate stakeholders and may create a work group of volunteers   to make recommendations regarding the curriculum.          (d)  The State Board of Education, the agency, and   appropriate stakeholders shall enter into a memorandum of   understanding that establishes each entity's respective   responsibilities in developing cultural inclusion curriculum that   reflects the cultural, linguistic, and religious diversity of   society.          (e)  Before finalizing the curriculum developed under this   section, the State Board of Education shall provide a reasonable   period for public comment.          (f)  Subject to rules adopted by the State Board of   Education, a school district or open-enrollment charter school may   tailor the curriculum developed under this section as appropriate   for the district's or school's community. In tailoring the   instruction, the district or school shall solicit input from the   State Board of Education, the agency, community members, and other   interested individuals or organizations.          SECTION 3.  This Act applies beginning with the 2025-2026   school year.          SECTION 4.  This Act takes effect immediately if it receives   a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as   provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution.  If this   Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this   Act takes effect September 1, 2025.