February 04, 2019
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy signed a bill on Thursday that will require schools to teach LGBTQ history in the classroom.
Lessons about LBGTQ individuals who contributed to society politically, economically and socially will be required learning in public schools, starting in the 2020 school year. The bill also requires people with disabilities to be included in curricula.
The bill will not apply to private schools.
Instructors will adjust their social studies lessons for both high school and middle school students when applicable. CNN reported that the state hopes to have official textbooks updated by 2020, however online materials could be used this school year.
Murphy called the move a step toward inclusion and officials are hailing it as a way for students to get a fuller picture of American history.
California was the first state to implement a similar law back in 2011. All textbooks were updated in the state in 2015.
Follow Emily & PhillyVoice on Twitter @emily_rolen | @thePhillyVoice
Like us on Facebook: PhillyVoice
Add Emily’s RSS feed to your feed reader
Have a news tip? Let us know.
