This July, a dedicated group of New Jersey K–12 educators wrapped up “Teaching AAPI History With Impact: A Curriculum Design Intensive,” a multi-day workshop series focused on including Asian American and Pacific Islander histories in the classroom. Hosted by Teach Asian American Stories (TAAS), an initiative powered by AAPI New Jersey, the intensive supports the implementation of New Jersey’s historic AAPI curriculum law (S4021).
Over three weeks, participating teachers engaged in deep learning on topics including Asian American migration, birthright citizenship, the 14th Amendment, and the U.S. empire in the Pacific. In addition to professional development training in culturally responsive teaching, educators collaborated in guided focus groups, received classroom-specific resources, and developed original lesson plans tailored to their students.
The series culminated in a full-day, in-person session at the office of AAPI New Jersey where teachers were provided with lunch, books, and one-on-one time with peer mentors and focus group leaders. Most importantly, they were given space and support to do what they do best: write.
Each teacher will continue refining their lesson plans, which will be reviewed, edited, and eventually published online for free public access—ensuring their work can benefit classrooms across New Jersey and beyond.
“The best lessons are made by teachers, for teachers,” said Roslyne Shiao, Co-Executive Director of AAPI New Jersey. “Together, we’re building curriculum rooted in identity, resistance, and solidarity.”
This program was made possible through the support of The Asian American Foundation, Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Montclair State University and many others committed to transforming education in NJ schools.
Partner With TAAS to Bring AAPI Curriculum to Your School or District
Teach Asian American Stories is currently scheduling professional development workshops for the 2025–2026 school year. Our hands-on K–12 trainings, classroom resources, and teacher microgrants are designed to help districts fulfill New Jersey’s AAPI Curriculum Mandate.
With grant funding and flexible pricing options available, TAAS works closely with educators and administrators to provide resources and training opportunities tailored to the unique needs of each school community.
Interested in bringing this work to your district? Schedule a brief consultation to learn how we can support you in the 2025–2026 school year!
