Bill > AB857

This bill requires the California State Department of Education to develop an online cultural competency training platform and curriculum by July 1, 2027, specifically designed to support pupils of color. From the 2027-28 to 2031-32 school years, local educational agencies (which include school districts, county offices of education, and charter schools) must provide an annual one-hour cultural competency training to all school employees. The training must be completed during paid work hours or professional development time. Employees can be exempt from the training if they have certain valid language or educational certifications, or if they can provide proof of completing a similar training at another educational agency. The bill defines "cultural competency" as an ongoing process of self-reflection that increases understanding and respect for cultural differences. Local educational agencies must provide completion certificates and maintain training records. The State Department of Education will monitor compliance through existing annual program monitoring and must submit a report to the Legislature within nine months after the 2031-32 school year, detailing the monitoring findings. The training requirements will become inoperative on July 1, 2033, and completely repealed on January 1, 2034. If the Commission on State Mandates determines the bill imposes state-mandated costs, local agencies will be reimbursed according to existing government procedures.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB857