What We’re Advocating for in Salem in 2022

_As Oregon kicks off a new legislative session, I’m reflecting on how much we’ve accomplished alongside our community partners so far. Last year, we passed the lion’s share of our ambitious, community-driven priorities that will advance an inclusive, equitable, rigorous, and racially just education system for all children.

But still, there is unfinished business.

In 2017, Oregon led the nation when it passed historic statewide K-12 ethnic studies standards with bipartisan support. Now, Oregon has a responsibility to provide the training and support that educators need and deserve to implement ethnic studies standards in the classroom.

This year, Foundations for a Better Oregon is proud to partner with the Oregon Partners for Education Justice (OPEJ) to advocate for House Bill 4112, urging lawmakers to invest in professional development for ethnic studies in Oregon.

“On an individual level, it is important that students feel their people’s histories and perspectives are welcomed and honored in our schools. That requires high quality professional development and instructional materials,” said Rep. Teresa Alonso León, chief sponsor of House Bill 4112, at yesterday’s public hearing. “On a collective level, our families, workplaces, and entire state will be much stronger if students from all backgrounds know that their history is recognized and respected in our state.”

Youth, educators, school district administrators, and community leaders across our state see great hope in Oregon’s ethnic studies standards, and professional development is the critical next step. We hope you’ll join us and urge state legislators to honor Oregon’s commitment to students and educators by passing House Bill 4112.