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Bill

AB 1041

Relating to: required instruction in African American history in the elementary and high school grades and making an appropriation. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Margaret Arney and 19 co-sponsors

Wisconsin requires schools to teach African American history as mandatory curriculum with state funding for implementation.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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Bill Summary · AB 1041

Legislative bill overview

AB 1041 mandates that Wisconsin elementary and high schools include required instruction on African American history in their curricula and provides state funding to support implementation. The bill includes an appropriation to cover the costs of curriculum development, teacher training, and instructional materials needed for schools to meet this requirement.

Why is this important

Curriculum requirements directly shape what millions of Wisconsin students learn and understand about the nation's history. This bill addresses concerns that African American contributions, experiences, and historical significance have been underrepresented in traditional K-12 education, potentially affecting students' civic knowledge and sense of inclusion. The funding component is critical because unfunded mandates can strain school budgets and affect implementation quality.

Potential points of contention

  • Curriculum content and standards: Disagreement over what specific topics, time periods, and perspectives should be included, and who determines the standards (state level versus local school districts)
  • Implementation burden and costs: Questions about whether the appropriation adequately covers teacher professional development, curriculum materials, and administrative costs across all districts, particularly smaller or rural schools
  • Local control concerns: Debate over whether state-mandated curriculum requirements infringe on local school board authority to determine educational priorities and content

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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