Provides that all schools shall have a multi-cultural curriculum

BILL NUMBER:S1148

Title of bill

An act to amend the education law, in relation to requiring a multi-cultural curriculum

Purpose of bill

This proposal would help foster peaceful coexistence across races and culture and would help in the formation of intercultural relationships locally, nationally, and internationally.

Summary of specific provisions

1. The present curriculum in schools needs to be modified to include mandatory multicultural education for all schools at all levels. In order to make education appropriate for each school where it is being implemented, individual schools must do research on their student body. Research should include but not be limited to: observation of students' behavior in the classroom and during recess; inquiring as to cultural practices and preferences of the student body; and speaking with parents about their cultural practices. 2. Implementation of teacher preparation programs which will assist educators in effectively dealing with students from a broad spectrum of cultural backgrounds. They will teach students how to be more receptive of students from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Education should help to develop knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for teachers to be able to recognize and positively respond to the diverse needs of students in multicultural classroom settings. 3. The implementing of multicultural education should reflect each individual community where the school is located by: researching various ethnic groups with students in a classroom setting; studying published works on students' ethnic groups; encouraging parents to educate their children on the culture; asking students to share their culture in the classroom; examining and appreciating differences and similarities between cultures in art, music, dance, theatre, etc.; having students participate in projects that relate to various different cultures; and using trips and tours, when possible, to explore in depth classroom curriculums.

Justification

The educational performance of minority students has been constrained by a lack of knowledge on the part of many teachers about different cultures. Multiculturalism is unavoidable in modem societies. In order for multiculturalism to be accepted in society, education is key. As such, schools need to respond to the diverse society's they serve in, rather than marginalizing the cultures of minority groups. Most teachers in New York State possess limited knowledge and understanding to the cultures of the world. This presents a major challenge to effective teaching and learning.

Fiscal implications

Undetermined.

Effective date

September 1, next succeeding the date on which it shall have become a law.