Glendora Unified Rejects Ethnic Studies Curriculum

GLENDORA, Calif. — The Glendora Unified School District Board of Education voted 3-2 during the meeting on May 12, 2025 to reject a proposed Ethnic Studies curriculum, citing concerns over the absence of dedicated state funding to support its implementation.

Ethnic Studies in California: A Legislative Journey

The rejection comes nearly five years after Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 101 (AB101) in October 2021, which made California the first state to require Ethnic Studies as a high school graduation requirement. The law mandates that all public high school students, beginning with the graduating class of 2029-2030, complete a one-semester course in Ethnic Studies.

Community Engagement Process

While AB 101 established the requirement, it left significant flexibility for districts to develop their own curricula, using the state's model curriculum as a guideline. GUSD formed a community committee in December 2021, comprised of parents, educators, students, and community members from diverse backgrounds. The 14-member committee was tasked with gathering input and helping shape a curriculum that would meet state requirements while reflecting local values and perspectives.

In August 2023, Dr. Jennifer Prince, Assistant Superintendent of Education Services, presented an update on Ethnic Studies providing details on the course adoption timeline including a pilot class offered in 2025-26 school year.

In February 2025, Dr. Prince presented a course outline, but a vote on the curriculum in March 2025 rejected the proposed curriculum in a 3-2 vote. Reflecting on the comments from board members, a revised curriculum was presented in April 2025 and did not pass in the May 12, 2025 meeting.

The proposed curriculum centered on the following themes: identity, history and movement, exploring economic, social and political systems, and social movements and equity. Through the lens of intersectionality, students would explore and analyze the impact of social, cultural, and political forces on American society.

At the May 12 meeting, board members acknowledged the committee's extensive work but ultimately cited financial concerns as the deciding factor.

What's Next for Ethnic Studies in Glendora

The mandate for AB101 is only binding if the Legislature funds it. When the latest budget revision was announced on May 14, Gov. Newsom’s office decided not to allocate money to support the mandate, effectively putting the Ethnic Studies requirement on pause. Unless the State Legislature reverses course, Ethnic Studies course offerings are subject to individual school district’s approval.

Even though GUSD has spent nearly $60,000 on developing the Ethnic Studies curriculum, the vote on May 12 has put the pilot course and future offerings on hold. Meanwhile, neighboring districts like Azusa and Charter Oaks have moved forward with their Ethnic Studies implementations despite the state funding limbo.

For more information about the Ethnic Studies requirement or to view the proposed curriculum, visit the GUSD website.

Jenny Chan is a finance professional and community advocate based in Glendora. Passionate about civic engagement and inclusive growth, she shares insights on both local and national issues. Follow her on Instagram @imjennychan.