Connecticut State Department of Education

Teacher of the Year Ceremony
Due to inclement weather, the Teacher of the Year Ceremony has been postponed to December 16, 2025 from 5-7pm. Doors will open at 4pm. The Ceremony will take place at the Bushnell Theater in Hartford, and the order of events will remain the same.

Teaching Asian American and Pacific Islander Studies


Introduction


In 2022, Connecticut made a historic commitment to educational access and opportunity by enacting legislation requiring Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) studies as part of the social studies curriculum in all public schools. Beginning with the 2025-26 school year, Connecticut General Statutes § 10-16ww mandates that local and regional boards of education include AAPI studies instruction that encompasses:

  • Historical foundations: The rich and complex history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in Connecticut, the broader region, and the United States.
  • Civil rights advocacy: The ongoing contributions of AAPI individuals and communities toward advancing civil rights from the 19th century to today.
  • Individual excellence: Recognition of AAPI leaders who have shaped government, arts, humanities, and sciences.
  • Community impact: Understanding how AAPI communities have contributed to America's economic, cultural, social, and political development.

This legislative mandate, supported by Connecticut General Statutes § 10-16b and integrated into the state's Model Curriculum for grades K-8 (§ 10-25b), represents more than a curricular requirement—it embodies Connecticut's vision of education that reflects the full diversity of American experience.

Supporting Educator Implementation

This resource hub supports educators in implementing that legislative vision by providing access to high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) that highlight the contributions, struggles, and cultural identities of AAPI individuals and communities. By uplifting these stories, we prepare students to think critically, develop empathy, and engage responsibly in an increasingly diverse world.

Through the lens of access and opportunity this site offers:

  • Standards-aligned resources: Classroom-ready model curriculum, lessons and research that meet Connecticut Elementary and Secondary Social Studies Standards. 
  • Age-appropriate materials: Curated book and film lists designed for various grade bands.
  • Dialogue facilitation tools: Resources for facilitating meaningful conversations about identity, culture, and history.
  • Professional development: Learning opportunities for educators committed to culturally responsive teaching.

A Commitment to Educational Truth and Equity

The inclusion of AAPI studies reflects Connecticut's dedication to providing students with a complete and accurate understanding of American history and society. These resources are designed to ensure that all Connecticut students can see themselves reflected in the curriculum, and all students can learn from the histories and experiences of others. As mandated by state law, local and regional boards may utilize curriculum materials made available by the State Board of Education or other existing and appropriate public or private materials, personnel, and resources, provided such curriculum aligns with Connecticut's educational standards.

As a living collection, this resource hub will continue to evolve in collaboration with educators, community partners, and scholars to meet the needs of our schools and support the full implementation of Connecticut's groundbreaking AAPI studies legislation.