CSUMB educators unveil comprehensive multicultural studies curriculum to enhance student engagement

The Pacific Grove Unified School District (PGUSD) held its third LCAP Community Engagement Meeting on April 5, 2025, focusing on the integration of diverse cultural studies into the curriculum. The meeting featured discussions led by educators on the development of new courses aimed at enhancing students' understanding of various ethnic histories and contemporary issues.

The session began with an introduction by a representative who emphasized the importance of collaboration with local tribes and experts, including Dr. Jeremiah Zungusi from California State University, Monterey Bay. The aim is to create a curriculum that reflects the rich histories and contributions of Native American, Asian American, African American, and Chicano/Latino communities.

Brandy, an educator, outlined the proposed curriculum, starting with Native American studies. Key topics will include colonization, treaty rights, and environmental justice. Recommended readings include "An Indigenous People's History of The United States" and "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian." Students will engage in project-based learning, culminating in assignments focused on Native American sovereignty and land rights.

The discussion then shifted to Asian American studies, highlighting significant historical events such as the Chinese Exclusion Act and Japanese internment during World War II. Suggested readings include "Minor Feelings" by Cathy Park Hong and "No No Boy" by John Okada. Students will research and present case studies on Asian American social movements.

African American studies were also addressed, with an emphasis on pre-colonial African kingdoms and the impact of slavery and systemic racism. The curriculum will include readings like "The Souls of Black Folk" and "Letter from a Birmingham Jail," with assignments encouraging students to explore the legacies of racism and reparations.

Chicano and Latino studies were discussed last, focusing on the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo and the Chicano Movement. Suggested readings include "La Raza Cosmica" and "Harvest of Shame." Students will create advocacy campaigns on immigration reform, fostering debate and discussion.

Throughout the meeting, educators stressed the importance of peer collaboration and the use of primary documents to enhance learning. The overall goal is to deepen students' understanding of cultural contributions and historical contexts, moving beyond surface-level knowledge to foster critical thinking and appreciation for diversity.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue refining the curriculum and engaging the community in the educational process, ensuring that students gain a comprehensive understanding of the diverse histories that shape their society.