SAN JOSE, CA – A new model curriculum for students across California was unveiled to educators during a two-day conference hosted at the Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE). The model curriculum is focused on Vietnamese American history, culture, and experiences.
The introduction of the curriculum began with a kick-off at the Vietnamese American Service Center in San José, celebrating the Vietnamese American experience and representation in education specifically. California has the largest Vietnamese population in the United States, according to Census data. The city of San José is home to the largest Vietnamese population outside of Vietnam, with just over 10 percent of the population identifying as Vietnamese American. Educators attended the Vietnamese American Experiences Conference on September 27 and 28 to learn about the project, access resources, and connect with cultural experts.
“Our goal, through initiatives like this conference and the broader implementation of Ethnic Studies coursework, is to empower students with a more comprehensive understanding of who we are as a society,” said Santa Clara County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mary Ann Dewan. “We deeply appreciate the partnership with the Orange County Department of Education and the shared commitment to advancing inclusive education.”
Developed by the Orange County Department of Education, the Vietnamese American Experiences Model Curriculum (VAEMC) was created in response to state legislation with community input and California Department of Education guidance.
“I want to extend my deepest thanks to the Santa Clara County Office of Education for hosting this two-day session and to everyone who contributed to the Vietnamese American Experiences Model Curriculum,” Orange County Superintendent Dr. Stefan Bean said. “This conference presents an opportunity to understand and explore this model curriculum while forging new partnerships and advancing educational practices that embrace, celebrate and uplift our communities.”
This is one of three model curriculum projects (Cambodian, Hmong, and Vietnamese American experiences). All of the resources are available on the University of Davis’ California Model Curricula platform for free.
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About the Santa Clara County Office of Education
Working collaboratively with school and community partners, the Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE) is a regional service agency committed to serving, inspiring, and promoting student and public school success. The SCCOE is a premier service organization driven by the core principles of equity, diversity, inclusion, and partnership. For more information about the Santa Clara County Office of Education, please visit www.sccoe.org and follow us @SCCOE on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.