The Alaska History & Cultural Studies Curriculum Project was launched by the Alaska Humanities Forum in 2003, in response to a widely recognized need for Alaskans students to know their own history. The Forum provided the leadership for three goals:

1. Adoption of a statewide high school graduation requirement in Alaska history;
2. Development of an Alaska history & cultural studies curriculum; and
3. Creation of professional development opportunities for teachers in Alaska history.

A grant from the United States Department of Education through the Office of Senator Ted Stevens provided the funding to achieve these goals. An advisory committee provided policy direction and guidance. The group included educators, Native leaders, historians, and cultural experts from throughout the state.