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HomeEducation CodeDiv. 4Pt. 28Ch. 1Art. 1§ 51002 Local Curriculum Flexibility Standards

§ 51002 Local Curriculum Flexibility Standards

Education Code·California
AI Summary·Official Text·Key Terms·Related Statutes·References
AI SummaryVerified

§ 51002 Local Curriculum Flexibility Standards

Key Takeaways

  • •The state wants all schools to teach the same basic things, but also lets local schools add their own lessons.
  • •Local schools can create special programs that fit their students' needs better.
  • •The state sets the lowest rules for what schools must teach, but schools can do more if they want.

Example

A small town school near the ocean might add extra classes about fishing and sea life.

The state says all schools must teach math and reading, but this town can also teach ocean stuff because it’s important to their kids.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source
View on CA.gov

§ 51002 Local Curriculum Flexibility Standards

The Legislature hereby recognizes that, because of the common needs and interests of the citizens of this state and the nation, there is a need to establish a common state curriculum for the public schools, but that, because of economic, geographic, physical, political and social diversity, there is a need for the development of educational programs at the local level, with the guidance of competent and experienced educators and citizens. Therefore, it is the intent of the Legislature to set broad minimum standards and guidelines for educational programs, and to encourage local districts to develop programs that will best fit the needs and interests of the pupils, pursuant to stated philosophy, goals, and objectives. (Enacted by Stats. 1976, Ch. 1010.)

Last verified: January 23, 2026

Key Terms

educationschoolcurriculumstudentlegislatureteacherroadcommunity

Related Statutes

  • § 59002.5 Deaf Education Support Services
  • § 51004 Workforce Preparation Education Rights
  • § 56000.5 Low-Incidence Disability Services
  • § 56001 Special Education Program Requirements
  • § 59001.2 Deaf Education Access Requirements

References

  • Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
  • California Legislature. Education Code. Section 51002.
View Official Source