California students required to take ethnic studies course to graduate

• Schools that offer such programs have seen a decline in dropout rates, a study suggests, as well as a rise in college acceptances.

The big picture: The requirement won't take effect until 2029, but schools are required to offer ethnic studies courses starting in 2025 in order to give schools time to develop curriculum.

• In March, the California State Board of Education unanimously approved a model ethnic studies curriculum for its K-12 students, which focuses on "illuminating the often-untold struggles and contributions of Native Americans, African Americans, Latino/a/x Americans, and Asian Americans in California."

What they're saying: Newsom said that the legislation will help "expand educational opportunities in schools, teach students about the diverse communities that comprise California and boost academic engagement and attainment."

• "The bill also provides a number of safeguards to ensure that courses will be free from bias or bigotry and appropriate for all students," Newsom said in a statement.
• "The signing of AB 101 today is one step in the long struggle for equal education for all students," said Assemblymember Jose Medina.