Legislative Update: Governor Murphy Signs Legislation to Require Classroom Instruction on Latino and Hispanic History

While observing Hispanic Heritage Month at Drumthwacket, on Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation requiring the State Board of Education to adopt New Jersey Student Learning Standards (NJSLS) in Social Studies, ensuring that the rich contributions, history, and heritage of Latino and Hispanic people are taught in K-12 schools. According to a press release issued upon the bill signing, these new instructional requirements align with other efforts by the Murphy administration to ensure that New Jersey’s students receive a holistic education that reflects the strength and diversity of the Garden State.

Under the bill, a board of education is required to include instruction on the history and contributions of Latinos and Hispanics in the curriculum of students in grades kindergarten through 12 as part of the school district’s implementation of the NJSLS in Social Studies. The instruction is to be historically accurate, culturally relevant, community-based, and developmentally appropriate.

“Through today’s bill signing, we are cementing the legacy of New Jersey’s Latino and Hispanic communities,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “I am especially proud to sign this bill during Hispanic Heritage Month, ensuring that the contributions of our Hispanic and Latino communities are taught in our nation-leading public education system. By teaching students about their neighbors, we are raising a more informed next generation of future leaders in the Garden State.”

“New Jersey’s learning standards require instruction that reflects the diversity of our communities and our cultural heritage,” said New Jersey Department of Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer. “Codifying Hispanic and Latino history instruction into law is an important extension of that commitment. The Department will work in partnership with the Commission on Latino and Hispanic Heritage to provide districts with resources that support effective implementation of this requirement, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive understanding of our collective history.”

Under the bill, the Commissioner of Education, in collaboration with the Commission on Latino and Hispanic Heritage, will provide school districts with sample learning activities and resources that may be used to support implementation of the updated instructional requirements. These topics will be incorporated in the next required review of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards, which is currently underway. School districts will implement the new instruction requirement beginning in the 2026–2027 school year.

Prime sponsors of the legislation (S-2335/S-3096/A-3871) include Senators M. Teresa Ruiz, Brian Stack, and Angela McKnight, along with Assemblymembers Julio Marenco, Eliana Pintor Marin, Carmen Theresa Morales, and Annette Quijano.

“A study by Johns Hopkins University found that 87% of ‘key topics in Latino history’ are either left out of textbooks entirely or reduced to fewer than five sentences, leaving a profound gap in the story of America. Latinos have been at the forefront of shaping this country since its earliest days — fighting in every war, marching for civil rights, and using our talents to build businesses and drive the economy forward. Our children deserve to see that history reflected accurately, and Latinos represented in exceptional spaces,” said Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz. “This legislation will diversify our curriculum and shine a light on the contributions of Latinos — the artists, scientists, athletes, public servants, and countless others — who have left an indelible mark on our nation.”

“Representation matters, especially for children in their formative years, when school is often the first place they look for role models and reflections of themselves,” said Assemblyman Julio Marenco. “By integrating Latino and Hispanic American history into the core curriculum, we acknowledge the ever-evolving diversity of America, and affirm the need for an education system that is not only equitable in knowledge but also instills pride in all of its students. These stories are New Jersey’s stories, and ensuring our classrooms reflect the communities we serve is essential.”

“The NJSBA proudly recognizes the invaluable contributions of our Hispanic community. Hispanic students, educators, administrators, staff, and community members enrich our schools with their knowledge, culture, and spirit. Many also serve as members of local boards of education, further strengthening diversity and representation in our school environments,” said Dr. Timothy Purnell, NJSBA executive director and CEO. “Hispanic Heritage Month is a meaningful opportunity to celebrate and learn more about the history, traditions, and achievements that continue to shape and inspire our communities.”

Several other bill sponsors, education organizations and advocacy groups issued statements in support of the legislation and the observation of Hispanic Heritage Month. A full copy of the governor’s press release can be found here.