SAN JOSE, CA – A new curriculum for California students was presented to educators at a two-day conference on January 31 and February 1. The Cambodian American Studies Model Curriculum focuses on Cambodian American history, culture, and experiences.
 Charya Burt Cambodian Dance
| The curriculum is one of three (Cambodian, Hmong, and Vietnamese American experiences) developed by the Orange County Department of Education in response to legislation to support inclusive and culturally sustaining instruction. Educators, scholars, and community members helped develop this model curriculum, which includes primary source documents, planning resources, teaching strategies, professional development activities, and over sixty lesson plans. With partnership from the Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE), conferences showcase curricula that could enhance or support course development.
|
“By integrating Cambodian American experiences into our classrooms, we are fostering a more inclusive and accurate understanding of history—one that reflects the diversity of voices and experiences that make up our state,” said Dr. Debbie Gorgulho, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Progress at Santa Clara County Office of Education.
“The Cambodian American Studies Model Curriculum is a celebration of community stories, and it is a call to action for all of us to ensure that every student sees their story reflected in their education.”
| 
Exhibitors at the 2025 Cambodian American Studies Conference
|  Water Blessings: The Importance of Cambodian Healing through Spirituality
|
Nearly 200 attendees saw presentations and met with exhibitors at the conference to learn about companion resources and connect with cultural bearers and practices. Keynote speakers included Monica Sok, award-winning poet and author. Sessions included Cambodian dance performances, water blessings, and art workshops.
Extending her gratitude for the work being done to benefit students and collaboration amongst educational institutions, Santa Clara County Supervisor Betty Duong presented Dr. Cindy Huynh, an ethnic studies instructor at San Jose City College, with a commendation. Dr. Huynh and the college’s Leveraging Education for AAPI Progress community supported the past Vietnamese American Studies Model Curriculum Conference and the upcoming Hmong History and Cultural Studies Conference.
“The stories shared at the Santa Clara County Office of Education’s Cambodian American Studies Conference were a testament to the strength and brilliance of Cambodian American communities both here in Santa Clara County and throughout the Cambodian Diaspora,” said Supervisor Betty Duong. “History is not just about remembering the past; it’s about honoring our ancestors, learning from their struggles, seeing our stories be told, and ensuring their legacy empowers future generations."
|  Closing Remarks by Supervisor Betty Duong
|
###
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.
