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New Initiative Launched to Develop Latine Studies Curriculum for NYC Public Schools, Supported by NYC Council and Department of Education, United Way of New York City, Hispanic Federation, and The Gordon Institute at Teachers College, Columbia University
New curriculum will explore, celebrate, and expand the study of Latinidad in history, culture and contributions for students
***Video of today’s press conference available upon request***
New York City – December 2, 2024 – Today, United Way of New York City (UWNYC), the Hispanic Federation and the Edmund W. Gordon Institute for Advanced Study at Teachers College, Columbia University announced the launch of a new initiative to create and implement a Latine Studies Curriculum for New York City public school students. This effort seeks to address the fact that while Latine children and youth comprise 42 percent of students in New York City public schools, a 2019 study of commonly used books in pre-K to eighth-grade curricula found that 83% of the books were written by white authors, nearly five times more books than all authors of color combined.
The announcement officially kicks off a three-year effort where UWNYC, Hispanic Federation and the Gordon Institute will engage with stakeholders throughout the city to establish a curricular framework that can be incorporated into the district’s formal curriculum. Educators will be able to integrate lessons and activities about underrepresented Latine history, culture and identities into their existing practice and programs, with materials tailored to grade-bands that will complement core subject areas standards.
The initiative will be supported by funding provided by the New York City Council, which awarded a historic $3 million commitment in the FY25 city budget to kick off the Latine Curriculum development project. The funding has been awarded under the City Council’s Education Equity Action Plan initiative.
“We are embarking on a critically important journey that will elevate the educational experience for all New York City students. Studies show that all students benefit when presented with a culturally responsive and diverse curriculum,” said Grace Bonilla, President and CEO of United Way of New York City. “In order to build an equitable educational environment, we need resources that reflect the broad scope of our history and lived experiences. A comprehensive and community-driven Latine Studies Curriculum does just that. We are proud to drive this initiative forward in partnership with other organizations like the Hispanic Federation and The Gordon Institute at Teachers College, Columbia University, as we have a rich history of supporting critical educational initiatives.”
“It is critical for students to have access to a culturally relevant curriculum – to learn about people who are instrumental to American society who look like them and have a shared culture with them. This exposure can help uplift children as they explore non-traditional stories, history, and authors that are just as important to our history and society as anyone else. We are proud to work with United Way of New York City and Teachers College, Columbia University on this endeavor and thank the New York City council for their leadership in creating the Latine curriculum,” said Jessica Orozco Guttlein, Senior Vice President for Policy and Communications, Hispanic Federation.
“Culturally-relevant education plays a crucial role in supporting the success of all students, who deserve enriched learning environments that reflect the diversity of our city and world,” said Thomas Bailey, President of Teachers College, Columbia University. “The Latine Studies Curriculum is an essential pursuit in this vision for more equitable, effective education. Teachers College is honored by the opportunity to apply our deep expertise in culturally relevant education research, curriculum development, pedagogy, and evaluation to this new initiative through leadership from the Edmund W. Gordon Institute for Advanced Study. We are grateful for the leadership of the City Council in advancing this critical work for New York’s children.”
“In a political moment where discourses of educational equity have become under attack, books on the critical history and voices of racialized populations have been banned, and histories of colonial violence and racial/ethnic discrimination are being actively revised or erased from state curriculums, the New York City Council has made a profoundly important and historic investment in expanding and enhancing the pedagogical content and exposure of Latinidad in NYC public schools. What’s more, the development of this long-struggled-for curriculum, one that owes much to the early organizing efforts of the Young Lords, that will dynamically encompass the varied history, culture, and experiences of Latinidad, will gift NYC public school students with both the critically important histories as well as situated knowledges that are necessary for equity through culturally responsive and sustaining educative experiences,” said Ezekiel Dixon-Román, Professor of Critical Race, Media, and Educational Studies and Director of the Edmund W. Gordon Institute for Advanced Study at Teachers College, Columbia University. “We are very excited to be working with UWNYC and Hispanic Federation to develop and deliver a path-breaking curriculum on the studies of Latinidad; that which consists of content that is key to the story of this New York City and these United States.”
The three organizations will work closely with community based organizations and local educators to generate curriculum recommendations based on their on-the-ground work to support Latine communities. As part of the process, they will also partner with these organizations to conduct public-facing events and private convenings for both the development of the curriculum and the program’s implementation. Schools like The Island School/PS 188 in lower Manhattan, which has been serving its community for more than 100 years, will be vital in the development and implementation of this new curriculum.
“As a Latina chancellor, I believe it’s crucial to have a curriculum centered on the Latine experience, reflecting the rich history, culture, and contributions of our community. This not only empowers Latine students to see themselves reflected in their lessons, but also supports learning for everyone in the class. I look forward to supporting our partners as they develop this resource for our students,” said Melissa Aviles-Ramos, Chancellor of New York City Public Schools.
“This is a big step forward for both education and representation in our city. With the $3 million in funding for the development of a Latine culture and history curriculum, we’re finally putting into action what the community has been advocating for decades—a curriculum that truly reflects the diversity and richness of our culture,” said NYC Council Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala. “This project is a partnership with community organizations, public schools, and local families, and it’s all about giving our students the chance to see themselves in what they’re learning. Representation matters, and this curriculum will help ensure that all students, regardless of background, can connect to the history and stories that shape who we are as a city and a nation.”
“As the first Latina Majority Leader in New York City history, I stand on the shoulders of countless Latinos who have built and shaped this city through their hard work, resilience, and cultural contributions,” said NYC Council Majority Leader Amanda Farías. “The stories of our community are integral to the fabric of New York, yet they have often gone untold in our classrooms. That is why the development of the Latine Studies Curriculum is so important. By incorporating the histories, struggles, and triumphs of Latinos into our education system, we are ensuring that future generations not only understand the vital role we have played in this city’s growth, but also feel empowered to continue that legacy. I am proud to support this initiative, which honors our past and helps pave the way for a more inclusive future for New Yorkers. I commend United Way of New York City, the Hispanic Federation, and Teachers College for spearheading this transformative effort, and I look forward to seeing how this curriculum will shape a vibrant future for all of our students.”
“Latine history has been deliberately excluded from American history textbooks since forever. That ends today. Nearly half of New York City students are Latine and they deserve to see the impact of their communities acknowledged and their history and culture respected and discussed in their classroom,” said Council Member and Finance Committee Chair Justin Brannan. “We fought hard to secure this funding to create a comprehensive citywide Latine culture and history curriculum because this is just as much about representation as it is filling a gap of foundational knowledge. The history we teach our public school kids needs to be accurate and you can’t do that without showcasing the Latine contributions to our city, our state, and our country.”
“I am proud to be part of this transformative initiative to expand access and equity in education through the development of a Latine culture and history curriculum. With $3 million from the NYC Council Education Equity Action Plan, we are taking a crucial step toward ensuring our youth see themselves in the stories they read and the lessons they learn,” said NYC Council Member and Education Committee Chair Rita Joseph. “This partnership between United Way of New York City, Hispanic Federation, Teachers College, community organizations, and NYC Public Schools is a testament to what we can achieve together. For decades, many members of our school communities have championed this vision, and I am honored to join in bringing it to life for our students. This is about celebrating the rich diversity of our city and creating a future where every young person feels represented and valued in their education.”
“Students are best served when they have access to a variety of content that teaches authentically and honestly know about the world we live in, especially in a multicultural city like ours. For too long young people have not seen the history or experiences of their families or communities reflected in their school curriculum, and the Council Education Equity Action Plan is making significant investments to change that. I am proud to support this important initiative that will create a comprehensive and citywide Latine curriculum to enrich the development of the city’s youth,” said Council Member Carlina Rivera, Chair of the Committee on Cultural Affairs and Libraries.
“I am thrilled to participate in the launch of the Latine Studies Curriculum Initiative and usher in a new era of equitable learning in our city. As a former Latina student in NYC’s public schools and a parent to two Latina daughters–one who recently graduated from a NYC Public School and another who is still a student–I know how much more progress we have to make in creating an equitable and empowering learning environment for our kids,” said NYC Council Member Alexa Avilés. “We shouldn’t have to wait for college to learn about Latine contributions. Receiving an education on our history and culture as part of the K-12 curriculum is an invaluable opportunity for students who often feel alienated in our classrooms. I’m grateful for all the organizations who have supported this initiative and know that together we will be able to send a message that equitable public education is a right for every student–and one we will fight to protect.”
About United Way of New York City
For over 85 years, United Way of New York City has been at the forefront in the fight to drive equity and ensure dignity for all New Yorkers, no matter their zip code. We unite by mobilizing the best ideas, relevant data, internal and external experts, and resources. United Way of New York City maximizes impact by coordinating and aligning service providers, companies, local government, and New Yorkers to help families eliminate barriers and gain the agency to improve their lives for the better. To learn more, visit unitedwaynyc.org.
About Hispanic Federation
Hispanic Federation (HF) is a nonprofit membership and advocacy organization, founded in 1990, committed to empowering and advancing the Hispanic community, with a focus on low-income, marginalized, and immigrant Latinos. With programs in 40 states, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia, HF’s focus areas include immigration, economic empowerment, civic engagement, disaster relief, philanthropy, education, health, and the environment. HF also maintains ongoing public education campaigns and meets the organizational development needs of its member agencies through grant-making and capacity-building assistance.
About the Edmund W. Gordon Institute for Advanced Study at Teachers College, Columbia University
Since 1973, the Edmund W. Gordon Institute for Advanced Study has critically examined and engaged some of the most socially intractable issues of education. As one of the first university-based institutes devoted to improving educational and life outcomes for racialized populations in urban areas, The Gordon Institute has a rich history and tradition of intellectually advancing knowledge, producing cutting-edge research, conducting sharp evaluations, developing wide-ranging educational programs, and fostering community partnerships to enhance the lives of children, youth, and adults in New York City and beyond. The Gordon Institute is one of the longest standing major research institutes of Teachers College, Columbia University.
About Teachers College, Columbia University
Founded in 1887, Teachers College, Columbia University is the first and largest graduate school of education in the United States, is perennially ranked among the nation’s best. Teachers College’s mission is to create a smarter, healthier, and more equitable and just world. Teachers College engages in research and prepares professionals in its three main areas of expertise—education, health and psychology—to work with public and private entities in local, national and global communities and inform public policy. Students choose from among more than one hundred programs to earn graduate degrees, which are conferred by Columbia University. While it is closely affiliated with Columbia University and collaborates with it on many programs, the College is an independent, autonomous institution with a separate, independent governing board, president, and financial endowment.
