Op-Ed: Ethnic Studies - A Call for Reflection

Let me begin by clearly stating that the thoughts I’m sharing here reflect my personal views and not those of the board as a whole.

On May 12, the Glendora Unified School Board of Trustees voted on the Ethnic Studies course for the second time. It was rejected by a vote of 3-2. Since that decision, I’ve had time to reflect, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my thoughts with you.

Ethnic Studies is not just another elective. It is a course designed to explore and understand the histories, cultures, contributions, and lived experiences of racial and ethnic groups who have been historically marginalized or underrepresented in traditional curriculum. At its core, it’s about inclusion, truth, respect, and a broader understanding of the world we live in. It highlights the voices of African Americans, Latinx communities, Asian Americans, Native Americans, and many others who have shaped our society in ways that are too often overlooked.

Over the past three years, our district has taken a thoughtful, deliberate approach in developing this course. We invited community members to provide feedback, and we assembled a dedicated teacher committee who received specialized training to ensure the course would be both academically rigorous and sensitive to the values of our community. This was not a rushed or radical proposal—it was a carefully considered, collaborative effort.

There is substantial research that supports the value of ethnic studies for today’s students. So I find myself asking: What is so controversial about a course that promotes understanding, respect, and critical thinking? What are we afraid of? Do we not trust our own educators— trained professionals who know our students best—to teach this course fairly and responsibly?

We often take pride in calling ourselves the ‘Best District in the San Gabriel Valley’. And yet, while districts across the San Gabriel Valley, such as Azusa Unified and Arcadia Unified, have been offering Ethnic Studies for years—without a state mandate—we are falling behind.

Our students are living in an increasingly complex world. They need more than just the traditional ABCs and 123s. They need opportunities to think critically, to challenge assumptions, and to meaningfully engage with the diverse world around them. In a time when artificial intelligence can write essays and solve math problems, our students must be equipped with the human skills that machines cannot replicate—empathy, cultural literacy, and the ability to connect across differences.

Ethnic Studies offers all of that and more.

As a trustee, a parent of two current Glendora High school students and as someone who cares deeply about the well-being and future of our students, I urge you to pay close attention to this decision. It is not just about one course—it is about the kind of education we believe our students deserve. Let’s not let fear or misinformation guide our choices. Let’s lead with courage, clarity, and a commitment to preparing our students for the world they are inheriting.