Students, educators urge funding and resources to expand Asian‑American history in Maryland schools

Delegate Chris Walderama presented House Bill 1059, which would create a list of vetted, free resources for teachers, a grant program enabling teachers to take Asian‑American history coursework for required continuing education without out‑of‑pocket cost, and small grants to diversify school library holdings.

Lauren Lamb of the Maryland State Education Association and representatives from the Asian‑American community supported the measure, saying teacher access to credible materials and PD will help integrate Asian‑American history into existing state standards. Lamb told the committee the resources would help teachers approach standards “in innovative ways” and urged a favorable report.

The hearing included a substantial public‑comment panel of students and community advocates. Student witnesses — including Miles Chen, Jasper Chen, Penn Watson and others — described repeatedly encountering curricula that omit Asian‑American contributions, and offered survey data and personal testimony about classroom experiences. Penn Watson reported gathering more than 600 student survey responses, noting 79% said they had never learned about AAPI heritage in their county curriculum and that over 80% believed such content was necessary.

Advocates asked the committee to view the bill as a practical, non‑mandating approach that supports teachers and libraries rather than imposing a prescriptive curriculum. The sponsor emphasized the bill’s three components and requested a favorable report.

What happens next: Committee staff will consider technical amendments and any fiscal impacts related to the grant components before committee action.