NYC To Create New Latino Studies Program For Public Schools

The curriculum will be integrated into the city's existing educational programs.

New York City, NY — A coalition of organizations has announced the launch of a groundbreaking initiative aimed at creating and implementing a Latino Studies Curriculum for public school students in New York City.

This new project responds to the disparity in representation in the city’s educational materials.

The initiative will kick off a three-year collaborative effort to develop a comprehensive curricular framework that will highlight the rich history, culture, and identities of Latino communities.

The curriculum will be integrated into the city's existing educational programs, allowing teachers to weave lessons on underrepresented Latino history and culture into their classrooms. Age-appropriate materials will be tailored for different grade levels and aligned with core subject standards, ensuring that the lessons are both relevant and impactful.

Funding for the project comes from a historic $3 million allocation in the FY25 city budget, secured through the New York City Council’s Education Equity Action Plan.

“This initiative represents a critical step forward in ensuring that all New York City students have access to an inclusive and representative education,” said a spokesperson for the coalition.

The coalition will work closely with educators, policymakers, and community stakeholders across the city to build out the curriculum and ensure its success in classrooms. The effort is seen as an essential move towards rectifying longstanding gaps in educational representation for Latino students in New York City schools.