New York, NY — Students in 23 states now learn about Asian American history due to legal requirements of their K-12 public schools, according to new research from Committee of 100, a nonprofit leadership organization of distinguished Chinese Americans.

As of August 20th, the annual study shows expanding access to AAPI education as students head back to classrooms nationwide: 

• Thirteen states have statutes that require Asian American studies curriculum
• 33 states have academic standards that require ethnic studies
• Five states have no statutes, recently introduced bills, or academic standards that require or make optional Asian American studies or ethnic studies curriculum 

There are 23 states in total that have either statutes or academic standards that specifically require the teaching of Asian American history.

“Asian Americans have contributed to the fabric of this nation for over 200 years, yet we continue to be seen through the lens of the ‘perpetual foreigner’ stereotype,” said Paul Cheung, President of Committee of 100. “Public education is essential in building informed citizens, but too many school systems overlook Asian American history. Our history is American history, and when it isn’t adequately addressed in our classrooms, students grow up without a full understanding of the diverse experiences that shape our country.” 

Committee of 100’s recent survey of the general public reveals that about 70% say that school curriculum should include lessons on Asian American history. 

Three states are considering recently introduced bills that include Asian American studies requirements. Four states are considering recently introduced bills that include ethnic studies requirements. 

Committee of 100 researchers analyzed the laws, regulations, bills, and publicly available curriculum standards of all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. This research was originally conducted in 2022 and updated annually, with the most current report updated as of August 20, 2025. 

The research, state maps, and interactive research map are available on Committee of 100’s website here. 

AAPI Curriculum by the Numbers As of August 20, 2025 

Current Requirements: 

• 13 states have statutes requiring Asian American studies curriculum 

• 26 states have statutes requiring ethnic studies curriculum 

Academic Standards: 

• 16 states have academic standards for Asian American history 

• 37 states have academic standards for other non-White populations 

Pending Legislation: 

• 3 states considering new Asian American studies bills 

• 4 states considering new ethnic studies bills 

No Requirements: 

• 5 states have no statutes, bills, or standards for Asian American studies or ethnic studies 

About Committee of 100  
Committee of 100 is a non-profit U.S. leadership organization of Chinese Americans in business, government, academia, healthcare, and the arts focused on public policy engagement, civic engagement, and philanthropy. For over 30 years, Committee of 100 has served as the preeminent organization committed to the dual missions of promoting the full participation of Chinese Americans in all aspects of American life and constructive relations between the United States and Greater China. 

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Contact: 

Sam Jones 

Public Relations & Social Media Manager 

sjones@committee100.org