Amended IN Senate April 01, 2025 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20252026 REGULAR SESSION Senate Bill No. 745Introduced by Senators Ochoa Bogh and AllenFebruary 21, 2025 An act to amend Sections 51225.3 and 51473 of, and to add Section 51225.34 to, the Education Code, relating to pupil instruction. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTSB 745, as amended, Ochoa Bogh. High school graduation requirements: American government and civics: curriculum guide: model curriculum: State Seal of Civic Engagement.(1) Existing law requires a pupil to complete designated coursework while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school. These graduation requirements include, among others, the completion of 3 courses in social studies, including a one-semester course in American government and civics.This bill would require, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, the course in American government and civics to instead be a one-year course unless the governing board or body of a school district, county office of education, or charter school, as applicable, through a formal action at a publicly noticed meeting, elects to require only a one-semester course in American government and civics. To the extent the bill would impose additional duties on local educational agencies, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(2) Existing law establishes the Instructional Quality Commission and requires the commission to, among other things, recommend curriculum frameworks to the State Board of Education.This bill bill, subject to appropriation by the Legislature for this purpose, would require the commission to develop and recommend to the state board, and require the state board to adopt, on or before July 1, 2028, a curriculum guide and recommended resources State Department of Education, in collaboration with, and subject to the approval of, the executive director of the state board, to enter into a contract with a county office of education or a consortium of county offices of education for the purpose of developing a model curriculum for the one-year course in American government and civics, as provided. The bill would require the curriculum guide model curriculum to include, among other things, fundamentals on federal, state, and local government, as provided, and specified information relating to voting.(3) Existing law requires the Superintendent of Public Instruction, on or before January 1, 2020, to recommend to the state board criteria for awarding a State Seal of Civic Engagement to pupils who have demonstrated excellence in civics education and participation and have demonstrated an understanding of the United States Constitution, the California Constitution, and the democratic system of government. Existing law requires the state board, on or before January 31, 2021, to adopt, reject, or modify the criteria recommended by the Superintendent. Existing law requires a school district electing to participate in the program to, among other things, maintain appropriate records in order to identify pupils who have earned a State Seal of Civic Engagement.This bill would require a school district participating in the program to deem a pupils successful completion of a one-year course in American government and civics as satisfying specified criteria adopted by the state board. The bill would require a pupil who has successfully completed a one-year course in American government and civics, in order to receive the State Seal of Civic Engagement, to still satisfy all other criteria adopted by the state board.(4) The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: YES Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 51225.3 of the Education Code, as amended by Section 1 of Chapter 560 of the Statutes of 2024, is amended to read:51225.3. (a) A pupil shall complete all of the following while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school:(1) At least the following numbers of courses in the subjects specified, each course having a duration of one year, unless otherwise specified:(A) Three courses in English.(B) Two courses in mathematics. If the governing board of a school district requires more than two courses in mathematics for graduation, the governing board of the school district may award a pupil up to one mathematics course credit pursuant to Section 51225.35.(C) Two courses in science, including biological and physical sciences.(D) (i) Three courses in social studies, including United States history and geography; world history, culture, and geography; a one-semester course in American government and civics; and a one-semester course in economics.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, including pupils enrolled in a county office of education or charter school, the course in American government and civics shall be a one-year course, except as provided in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (2).(E) One course in visual or performing arts, world language, or, commencing with the 201213 school year, career technical education.(i) For purposes of satisfying the requirement specified in this subparagraph, a course in American Sign Language shall be deemed a course in world language.(ii) For purposes of this subparagraph, a course in career technical education means a course in a district-operated career technical education program that is aligned to the career technical model curriculum standards and framework adopted by the state board, including courses through a regional occupational center or program operated by a county superintendent of schools or pursuant to a joint powers agreement.(iii) This subparagraph does not require a school or school district that currently does not offer career technical education courses to start new career technical education programs for purposes of this section.(iv) If a school district or county office of education elects to allow a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement imposed by this subparagraph, the governing board of the school district or county office of education, before offering that alternative to pupils, shall notify parents, teachers, pupils, and the public at a regularly scheduled meeting of the governing board of all of the following:(I) The intent to offer career technical education courses to fulfill the graduation requirement specified in this subparagraph.(II) The impact that offering career technical education courses, pursuant to this subparagraph, will have on the availability of courses that meet the eligibility requirements for admission to the California State University and the University of California, and whether the career technical education courses to be offered pursuant to this subparagraph are approved to satisfy those eligibility requirements. If a school district elects to allow a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement imposed by this subparagraph, the school district shall comply with subdivision (l) of Section 48980.(III) The distinction, if any, between the high school graduation requirements of the school district or county office of education, and the eligibility requirements for admission to the California State University and the University of California.(F) Two courses in physical education, unless the pupil has been exempted pursuant to this code.(G) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 202930 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a one-semester course in ethnic studies. A local educational agency, including a charter school, may require a full-year course in ethnic studies at its discretion. Commencing with the 202526 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer at least a one-semester course in ethnic studies.(ii) Subject to the course offerings of a local educational agency, including a charter school, a pupil may fulfill the requirement of clause (i) through the completion of any of the following types of courses:(I) A course based on the model curriculum developed pursuant to Section 51226.7.(II) An existing ethnic studies course.(III) An ethnic studies course taught as part of a course that has been approved as meeting the AG requirements of the University of California and the California State University.(IV) A locally developed ethnic studies course approved by the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school. The proposed course shall first be presented at a public meeting of the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school, and shall not be approved until a subsequent public meeting of the governing board or governing body at which the public has had the opportunity to express its views on the proposed course.(iii) A course that does not use ethnic studies content as the primary content through which the subject is taught shall not be used to satisfy the requirement of clause (i).(iv) A pupil completing a course described in clause (ii) shall also accrue credit for coursework in the subject that the course is offered, including, if applicable, credit towards satisfying a course required for a diploma of graduation from high school pursuant to this section.(v) Curriculum, instruction, and instructional materials for a course described in clause (ii) shall meet all of the following requirements:(I) Be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, religions, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, and diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners.(II) Not reflect or promote, directly or indirectly, any bias, bigotry, or discrimination against any person or group of persons on the basis of any category protected by Section 220.(III) Not teach or promote religious doctrine.(vi) It is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies, including charter schools, consider that, pursuant to Section 51226.7, the Instructional Quality Commission undertook a lengthy, thorough, deliberative, and inclusive process before submitting a model curriculum in ethnic studies to the state board. To the extent that local educational agencies, including charter schools, choose to locally develop an ethnic studies program for approval by their governing board or governing body, it is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies not use the portions of the draft model curriculum that were not adopted by the Instructional Quality Commission due to concerns related to bias, bigotry, and discrimination.(vii) The amendments made to this section by Section 1 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall not be construed to alter any other requirement of this section for pupils enrolled in a charter school.(H) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that shall not be combined with any other course.(ii) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, a pupil who completes a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course, may elect to be exempt from the requirement to complete a one-semester course in economics pursuant to subparagraph (D).(iii) (I) A local educational agency may elect to eliminate one or more locally required courses established pursuant to paragraph (2) in order to accommodate the requirement that pupils, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, complete a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance.(II) This clause does not constitute a change in, but is declaratory of, existing law.(iv) Commencing with the 202728 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer in all of its high schools at least a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course.(v) To satisfy the requirement of this subparagraph, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance shall include information for pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, on all of, and only, the topics listed in paragraphs (1) to (13), inclusive, of subdivision (a) of Section 51284.5.(2) (A) Other coursework requirements adopted by the governing board of the school district.(B) The governing board of a school district may, at its discretion, adopt a policy to exempt pupils from any coursework requirements adopted pursuant to subparagraph (A). It is the intent of the Legislature that the policy include a consultation with the pupil and the educational rights holder for the pupil regarding any impact of not fulfilling locally required coursework on the pupils ability to gain admission to an institution of higher education.(C) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1), a school district, county office of education, or charter school may, pursuant to a formal action of the governing board or body of the school district, county office of education, or charter school at a publicly noticed meeting, instead require only a one-semester course in American government and civics.(D) This paragraph does not affect a pupils rights pursuant to Section 51225.1 or 51225.31.(b) The governing board, with the active involvement of parents, administrators, teachers, and pupils, shall adopt alternative means for pupils to complete the prescribed course of study that may include practical demonstration of skills and competencies, supervised work experience or other outside school experience, career technical education classes offered in high schools, courses offered by regional occupational centers or programs, interdisciplinary study, independent study, and credit earned at a postsecondary educational institution. Requirements for graduation and specified alternative modes for completing the prescribed course of study shall be made available to pupils, parents, and the public.(c) On or before July 1, 2017, the department shall submit a comprehensive report to the appropriate policy committees of the Legislature on the addition of career technical education courses to satisfy the requirement specified in subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), including, but not limited to, the following information:(1) A comparison of the pupil enrollment in career technical education courses, world language courses, and visual and performing arts courses for the 200506 to 201112 school years, inclusive, to the pupil enrollment in career technical education courses, world language courses, and visual and performing arts courses for the 201213 to 201617 school years, inclusive.(2) The reasons, reported by school districts, that pupils give for choosing to enroll in a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement specified in subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a).(3) The type and number of career technical education courses that were conducted for the 200506 to 201112 school years, inclusive, compared to the type and number of career technical education courses that were conducted for the 201213 to 201617 school years, inclusive.(4) The number of career technical education courses that satisfied the subject matter requirements for admission to the University of California or the California State University.(5) The extent to which the career technical education courses chosen by pupils are aligned with the California Career Technical Education Model Curriculum Standards, and prepare pupils for employment, advanced training, and postsecondary education.(6) The number of career technical education courses that also satisfy the visual and performing arts requirement, and the number of career technical education courses that also satisfy the world language requirement.(7) Annual pupil dropout and graduation rates for the 201112 to 201415 school years, inclusive.(d) For purposes of completing the report described in subdivision (c), the Superintendent may use existing state resources and federal funds. If state or federal funds are not available or sufficient, the Superintendent may apply for and accept grants, and receive donations and other financial support from public or private sources for purposes of this section.(e) For purposes of completing the report described in subdivision (c), the Superintendent may accept support, including, but not limited to, financial and technical support, from high school reform advocates, teachers, chamber organizations, industry representatives, research centers, parents, and pupils.(f) The amendments made to this section by Section 1 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall become operative only upon an appropriation of funds by the Legislature for purposes of these amendments in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(g) This section shall become inoperative on the earlier of the following two dates:(1) On July 1, immediately following the first fiscal year after the enactment of Chapter 621 of the Statutes of 2011 in which the number of career technical education courses that, as determined by the department, satisfy the world language requirement for admission to the California State University and the University of California is at least twice the number of career technical education courses that meet these admission requirements as of January 1, 2012. This section shall be repealed on the following January 1, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before that date, deletes or extends the dates on which it becomes inoperative and is repealed. It is the intent of the Legislature that new career technical education courses that satisfy the world language requirement for admission to the California State University and the University of California focus on world languages aligned with career preparation, emphasizing real-world application and technical content in related career and technical education courses.(2) On July 1, 2027, and, as of January 1, 2028, is repealed.SEC. 2. Section 51225.3 of the Education Code, as amended by Section 2 of Chapter 560 of the Statutes of 2024, is amended to read:51225.3. (a) A pupil shall complete all of the following while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school:(1) At least the following numbers of courses in the subjects specified, each course having a duration of one year, unless otherwise specified:(A) Three courses in English.(B) Two courses in mathematics. If the governing board of a school district requires more than two courses in mathematics for graduation, the governing board of the school district may award a pupil up to one mathematics course credit pursuant to Section 51225.35.(C) Two courses in science, including biological and physical sciences.(D) (i) Three courses in social studies, including United States history and geography; world history, culture, and geography; a one-semester course in American government and civics; and a one-semester course in economics.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, including pupils enrolled in a county office of education or charter school, the course in American government and civics shall be a one-year course, except as provided in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (2).(E) One course in visual or performing arts or world language. For purposes of satisfying the requirement specified in this subparagraph, a course in American Sign Language shall be deemed a course in world language.(F) Two courses in physical education, unless the pupil has been exempted pursuant to this code.(G) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 202930 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a one-semester course in ethnic studies. A local educational agency, including a charter school, may require a full-year course in ethnic studies at its discretion. Commencing with the 202526 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer at least a one-semester course in ethnic studies.(ii) Subject to the course offerings of a local educational agency, including a charter school, a pupil may fulfill the requirement of clause (i) through the completion of any of the following types of courses:(I) A course based on the model curriculum developed pursuant to Section 51226.7.(II) An existing ethnic studies course.(III) An ethnic studies course taught as part of a course that has been approved as meeting the AG requirements of the University of California and the California State University.(IV) A locally developed ethnic studies course approved by the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school. The proposed course shall first be presented at a public meeting of the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school, and shall not be approved until a subsequent public meeting of the governing board or governing body at which the public has had the opportunity to express its views on the proposed course.(iii) A course that does not use ethnic studies content as the primary content through which the subject is taught shall not be used to satisfy the requirement of clause (i).(iv) A pupil completing a course described in clause (ii) shall also accrue credit for coursework in the subject that the course is offered, including, if applicable, credit towards satisfying a course required for a diploma of graduation from high school pursuant to this section.(v) Curriculum, instruction, and instructional materials for a course described in clause (ii) shall meet all of the following requirements:(I) Be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, religions, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, and diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners.(II) Not reflect or promote, directly or indirectly, any bias, bigotry, or discrimination against any person or group of persons on the basis of any category protected by Section 220.(III) Not teach or promote religious doctrine.(vi) It is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies, including charter schools, consider that, pursuant to Section 51226.7, the Instructional Quality Commission undertook a lengthy, thorough, deliberative, and inclusive process before submitting a model curriculum in ethnic studies to the state board. To the extent that local educational agencies, including charter schools, choose to locally develop an ethnic studies program for approval by their governing board or governing body, it is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies not use the portions of the draft model curriculum that were not adopted by the Instructional Quality Commission due to concerns related to bias, bigotry, and discrimination.(vii) The amendments made to this section by Section 2 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall not be construed to alter any other requirement of this section for pupils enrolled in a charter school.(H) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that shall not be combined with any other course.(ii) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, a pupil who completes a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course, may elect to be exempt from the requirement to complete a one-semester course in economics pursuant to subparagraph (D).(iii) (I) A local educational agency may elect to eliminate one or more locally required courses established pursuant to paragraph (2) in order to accommodate the requirement that pupils, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, complete a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance.(II) This clause does not constitute a change in, but is declaratory of, existing law.(iv) Commencing with the 202728 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer in all of its high schools at least a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course.(v) To satisfy the requirement of this subparagraph, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance shall include information for pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, on all of, and only, the topics listed in paragraphs (1) to (13), inclusive, of subdivision (a) of Section 51284.5.(2) (A) Other coursework requirements adopted by the governing board of the school district.(B) The governing board of a school district may, at its discretion, adopt a policy to exempt pupils from any coursework requirements adopted pursuant to subparagraph (A). It is the intent of the Legislature that the policy include a consultation with the pupil and the educational rights holder for the pupil regarding any impact of not fulfilling locally required coursework on the pupils ability to gain admission to an institution of higher education.(C) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1), a school district, county office of education, or charter school may, pursuant to a formal action of the governing board of body of the school district, county office of education, or charter school at publicly noticed meeting, instead require only a one-semester course in American government and civics.(D) This paragraph does not affect a pupils rights pursuant to Section 51225.1 or 51225.31.(b) The governing board, with the active involvement of parents, administrators, teachers, and pupils, shall adopt alternative means for pupils to complete the prescribed course of study that may include practical demonstration of skills and competencies, supervised work experience or other outside school experience, career technical education classes offered in high schools, courses offered by regional occupational centers or programs, interdisciplinary study, independent study, and credit earned at a postsecondary educational institution. Requirements for graduation and specified alternative modes for completing the prescribed course of study shall be made available to pupils, parents, and the public.(c) If a pupil completed a career technical education course that met the requirements of subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 51225.3, as amended by Section 3 of Chapter 621 of the Statutes of 2011, before the inoperative date of that section, that course shall be deemed to fulfill the requirements of subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of this section.(d) The amendments made to this section by Section 2 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall become operative only upon an appropriation of funds by the Legislature for purposes of these amendments in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(e) This section shall become operative upon the date that Section 51225.3, as amended by Section 35 of Chapter 571 of the Statutes of 2022, becomes inoperative.SEC. 3. Section 51225.34 is added to the Education Code, to read:51225.34. (a) The Instructional Quality Commission shall develop and recommend to the state board, for consideration and adoption by the state board, a curriculum guide and recommended resources department shall, in collaboration with, and subject to the approval of, the executive director of the state board, enter into a contract with a county office of education or a consortium of county offices of education for the purpose of developing a model curriculum for the one-year course in American government and civics required pursuant to clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 51225.3. The state board shall adopt the curriculum guide and recommended resources on or before July 1, 2028.(b) The curriculum guide required model curriculum developed pursuant to subdivision (a) shall include, but is not limited to, all of the following:(1) Fundamentals on the responsibilities of federal departments and agencies.(2) Fundamentals on California state government institutions, including the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, along with state agencies and departments.(3) Fundamentals on local government institutions, including city councils, county boards of supervisors, and other local bodies.(4) Fundamentals on special districts in California, including their purpose and membership.(5) Fundamentals on Tribal governments in California, including their purpose and membership.(6) Fundamentals on direct democracy in California, including ballot initiatives, referenda, and the recall process.(7) How to participate in the decisionmaking of federal, state, local, and special district institutions, including, but not limited to, how to contact representatives, how to attend state and local public meetings, and understanding pathways of influence.(8) The role of advocacy and interest groups in government decisionmaking.(9) All of the following relating to voting:(A) Eligibility for, and requirements relating to, registering to vote.(B) The various methods for registering to vote, including the ability to preregister to vote.(C) Acquiring official, nonpartisan election and voter information from county and state elections officials, including, but not limited to, accessing county and state elections internet websites.(D) Understanding the electoral systems used at the federal, state, and local level.(E) How to complete and submit a ballot through various methods, including vote by mail and in person at a polling place or vote center.(F) An individuals rights as a voter.(10) Tools for constructive political dialogue, including methods and techniques such as Socratic seminars and structured classroom debates, to teach pupils how to engage in respectful disagreements.(c) This section shall be implemented only upon appropriation by the Legislature for its purposes in the annual Budget Act or another statute.SEC. 4. Section 51473 of the Education Code is amended to read:51473. A school district that participates in the program under this article shall do all of the following:(a) Deem a pupils successful completion of a one-year course in American government and civics as satisfying the criteria adopted by the state board that a pupil demonstrates a competent understanding of United States and California constitutions; functions and governance of local governments; tribal government structures and organizations; the role of the citizen in a constitutional democracy; and democratic principles, concepts, and processes. A pupil who successfully completes a one-year course in American government and civics shall still be required to satisfy all other criteria adopted by the state board in order to receive the State Seal of Civic Engagement.(b) Maintain appropriate records in order to identify pupils who have earned a State Seal of Civic Engagement.(c) Affix the appropriate insignia to the diploma or transcript of each pupil who earns a State Seal of Civic Engagement.SEC. 5. If the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to Part 7 (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Government Code.
Amended IN Senate April 01, 2025 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20252026 REGULAR SESSION Senate Bill No. 745Introduced by Senators Ochoa Bogh and AllenFebruary 21, 2025 An act to amend Sections 51225.3 and 51473 of, and to add Section 51225.34 to, the Education Code, relating to pupil instruction. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTSB 745, as amended, Ochoa Bogh. High school graduation requirements: American government and civics: curriculum guide: model curriculum: State Seal of Civic Engagement.(1) Existing law requires a pupil to complete designated coursework while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school. These graduation requirements include, among others, the completion of 3 courses in social studies, including a one-semester course in American government and civics.This bill would require, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, the course in American government and civics to instead be a one-year course unless the governing board or body of a school district, county office of education, or charter school, as applicable, through a formal action at a publicly noticed meeting, elects to require only a one-semester course in American government and civics. To the extent the bill would impose additional duties on local educational agencies, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(2) Existing law establishes the Instructional Quality Commission and requires the commission to, among other things, recommend curriculum frameworks to the State Board of Education.This bill bill, subject to appropriation by the Legislature for this purpose, would require the commission to develop and recommend to the state board, and require the state board to adopt, on or before July 1, 2028, a curriculum guide and recommended resources State Department of Education, in collaboration with, and subject to the approval of, the executive director of the state board, to enter into a contract with a county office of education or a consortium of county offices of education for the purpose of developing a model curriculum for the one-year course in American government and civics, as provided. The bill would require the curriculum guide model curriculum to include, among other things, fundamentals on federal, state, and local government, as provided, and specified information relating to voting.(3) Existing law requires the Superintendent of Public Instruction, on or before January 1, 2020, to recommend to the state board criteria for awarding a State Seal of Civic Engagement to pupils who have demonstrated excellence in civics education and participation and have demonstrated an understanding of the United States Constitution, the California Constitution, and the democratic system of government. Existing law requires the state board, on or before January 31, 2021, to adopt, reject, or modify the criteria recommended by the Superintendent. Existing law requires a school district electing to participate in the program to, among other things, maintain appropriate records in order to identify pupils who have earned a State Seal of Civic Engagement.This bill would require a school district participating in the program to deem a pupils successful completion of a one-year course in American government and civics as satisfying specified criteria adopted by the state board. The bill would require a pupil who has successfully completed a one-year course in American government and civics, in order to receive the State Seal of Civic Engagement, to still satisfy all other criteria adopted by the state board.(4) The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: YES
Amended IN Senate April 01, 2025
Amended IN Senate April 01, 2025
CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20252026 REGULAR SESSION
Senate Bill
No. 745
Introduced by Senators Ochoa Bogh and AllenFebruary 21, 2025
Introduced by Senators Ochoa Bogh and Allen
February 21, 2025
An act to amend Sections 51225.3 and 51473 of, and to add Section 51225.34 to, the Education Code, relating to pupil instruction.
LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
## LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
SB 745, as amended, Ochoa Bogh. High school graduation requirements: American government and civics: curriculum guide: model curriculum: State Seal of Civic Engagement.
(1) Existing law requires a pupil to complete designated coursework while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school. These graduation requirements include, among others, the completion of 3 courses in social studies, including a one-semester course in American government and civics.This bill would require, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, the course in American government and civics to instead be a one-year course unless the governing board or body of a school district, county office of education, or charter school, as applicable, through a formal action at a publicly noticed meeting, elects to require only a one-semester course in American government and civics. To the extent the bill would impose additional duties on local educational agencies, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program.(2) Existing law establishes the Instructional Quality Commission and requires the commission to, among other things, recommend curriculum frameworks to the State Board of Education.This bill bill, subject to appropriation by the Legislature for this purpose, would require the commission to develop and recommend to the state board, and require the state board to adopt, on or before July 1, 2028, a curriculum guide and recommended resources State Department of Education, in collaboration with, and subject to the approval of, the executive director of the state board, to enter into a contract with a county office of education or a consortium of county offices of education for the purpose of developing a model curriculum for the one-year course in American government and civics, as provided. The bill would require the curriculum guide model curriculum to include, among other things, fundamentals on federal, state, and local government, as provided, and specified information relating to voting.(3) Existing law requires the Superintendent of Public Instruction, on or before January 1, 2020, to recommend to the state board criteria for awarding a State Seal of Civic Engagement to pupils who have demonstrated excellence in civics education and participation and have demonstrated an understanding of the United States Constitution, the California Constitution, and the democratic system of government. Existing law requires the state board, on or before January 31, 2021, to adopt, reject, or modify the criteria recommended by the Superintendent. Existing law requires a school district electing to participate in the program to, among other things, maintain appropriate records in order to identify pupils who have earned a State Seal of Civic Engagement.This bill would require a school district participating in the program to deem a pupils successful completion of a one-year course in American government and civics as satisfying specified criteria adopted by the state board. The bill would require a pupil who has successfully completed a one-year course in American government and civics, in order to receive the State Seal of Civic Engagement, to still satisfy all other criteria adopted by the state board.(4) The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.
(1) Existing law requires a pupil to complete designated coursework while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school. These graduation requirements include, among others, the completion of 3 courses in social studies, including a one-semester course in American government and civics.
This bill would require, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, the course in American government and civics to instead be a one-year course unless the governing board or body of a school district, county office of education, or charter school, as applicable, through a formal action at a publicly noticed meeting, elects to require only a one-semester course in American government and civics. To the extent the bill would impose additional duties on local educational agencies, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program.
(2) Existing law establishes the Instructional Quality Commission and requires the commission to, among other things, recommend curriculum frameworks to the State Board of Education.
This bill bill, subject to appropriation by the Legislature for this purpose, would require the commission to develop and recommend to the state board, and require the state board to adopt, on or before July 1, 2028, a curriculum guide and recommended resources State Department of Education, in collaboration with, and subject to the approval of, the executive director of the state board, to enter into a contract with a county office of education or a consortium of county offices of education for the purpose of developing a model curriculum for the one-year course in American government and civics, as provided. The bill would require the curriculum guide model curriculum to include, among other things, fundamentals on federal, state, and local government, as provided, and specified information relating to voting.
(3) Existing law requires the Superintendent of Public Instruction, on or before January 1, 2020, to recommend to the state board criteria for awarding a State Seal of Civic Engagement to pupils who have demonstrated excellence in civics education and participation and have demonstrated an understanding of the United States Constitution, the California Constitution, and the democratic system of government. Existing law requires the state board, on or before January 31, 2021, to adopt, reject, or modify the criteria recommended by the Superintendent. Existing law requires a school district electing to participate in the program to, among other things, maintain appropriate records in order to identify pupils who have earned a State Seal of Civic Engagement.
This bill would require a school district participating in the program to deem a pupils successful completion of a one-year course in American government and civics as satisfying specified criteria adopted by the state board. The bill would require a pupil who has successfully completed a one-year course in American government and civics, in order to receive the State Seal of Civic Engagement, to still satisfy all other criteria adopted by the state board.
(4) The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.
This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.
## Digest Key
## Bill Text
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 51225.3 of the Education Code, as amended by Section 1 of Chapter 560 of the Statutes of 2024, is amended to read:51225.3. (a) A pupil shall complete all of the following while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school:(1) At least the following numbers of courses in the subjects specified, each course having a duration of one year, unless otherwise specified:(A) Three courses in English.(B) Two courses in mathematics. If the governing board of a school district requires more than two courses in mathematics for graduation, the governing board of the school district may award a pupil up to one mathematics course credit pursuant to Section 51225.35.(C) Two courses in science, including biological and physical sciences.(D) (i) Three courses in social studies, including United States history and geography; world history, culture, and geography; a one-semester course in American government and civics; and a one-semester course in economics.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, including pupils enrolled in a county office of education or charter school, the course in American government and civics shall be a one-year course, except as provided in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (2).(E) One course in visual or performing arts, world language, or, commencing with the 201213 school year, career technical education.(i) For purposes of satisfying the requirement specified in this subparagraph, a course in American Sign Language shall be deemed a course in world language.(ii) For purposes of this subparagraph, a course in career technical education means a course in a district-operated career technical education program that is aligned to the career technical model curriculum standards and framework adopted by the state board, including courses through a regional occupational center or program operated by a county superintendent of schools or pursuant to a joint powers agreement.(iii) This subparagraph does not require a school or school district that currently does not offer career technical education courses to start new career technical education programs for purposes of this section.(iv) If a school district or county office of education elects to allow a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement imposed by this subparagraph, the governing board of the school district or county office of education, before offering that alternative to pupils, shall notify parents, teachers, pupils, and the public at a regularly scheduled meeting of the governing board of all of the following:(I) The intent to offer career technical education courses to fulfill the graduation requirement specified in this subparagraph.(II) The impact that offering career technical education courses, pursuant to this subparagraph, will have on the availability of courses that meet the eligibility requirements for admission to the California State University and the University of California, and whether the career technical education courses to be offered pursuant to this subparagraph are approved to satisfy those eligibility requirements. If a school district elects to allow a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement imposed by this subparagraph, the school district shall comply with subdivision (l) of Section 48980.(III) The distinction, if any, between the high school graduation requirements of the school district or county office of education, and the eligibility requirements for admission to the California State University and the University of California.(F) Two courses in physical education, unless the pupil has been exempted pursuant to this code.(G) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 202930 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a one-semester course in ethnic studies. A local educational agency, including a charter school, may require a full-year course in ethnic studies at its discretion. Commencing with the 202526 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer at least a one-semester course in ethnic studies.(ii) Subject to the course offerings of a local educational agency, including a charter school, a pupil may fulfill the requirement of clause (i) through the completion of any of the following types of courses:(I) A course based on the model curriculum developed pursuant to Section 51226.7.(II) An existing ethnic studies course.(III) An ethnic studies course taught as part of a course that has been approved as meeting the AG requirements of the University of California and the California State University.(IV) A locally developed ethnic studies course approved by the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school. The proposed course shall first be presented at a public meeting of the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school, and shall not be approved until a subsequent public meeting of the governing board or governing body at which the public has had the opportunity to express its views on the proposed course.(iii) A course that does not use ethnic studies content as the primary content through which the subject is taught shall not be used to satisfy the requirement of clause (i).(iv) A pupil completing a course described in clause (ii) shall also accrue credit for coursework in the subject that the course is offered, including, if applicable, credit towards satisfying a course required for a diploma of graduation from high school pursuant to this section.(v) Curriculum, instruction, and instructional materials for a course described in clause (ii) shall meet all of the following requirements:(I) Be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, religions, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, and diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners.(II) Not reflect or promote, directly or indirectly, any bias, bigotry, or discrimination against any person or group of persons on the basis of any category protected by Section 220.(III) Not teach or promote religious doctrine.(vi) It is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies, including charter schools, consider that, pursuant to Section 51226.7, the Instructional Quality Commission undertook a lengthy, thorough, deliberative, and inclusive process before submitting a model curriculum in ethnic studies to the state board. To the extent that local educational agencies, including charter schools, choose to locally develop an ethnic studies program for approval by their governing board or governing body, it is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies not use the portions of the draft model curriculum that were not adopted by the Instructional Quality Commission due to concerns related to bias, bigotry, and discrimination.(vii) The amendments made to this section by Section 1 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall not be construed to alter any other requirement of this section for pupils enrolled in a charter school.(H) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that shall not be combined with any other course.(ii) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, a pupil who completes a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course, may elect to be exempt from the requirement to complete a one-semester course in economics pursuant to subparagraph (D).(iii) (I) A local educational agency may elect to eliminate one or more locally required courses established pursuant to paragraph (2) in order to accommodate the requirement that pupils, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, complete a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance.(II) This clause does not constitute a change in, but is declaratory of, existing law.(iv) Commencing with the 202728 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer in all of its high schools at least a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course.(v) To satisfy the requirement of this subparagraph, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance shall include information for pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, on all of, and only, the topics listed in paragraphs (1) to (13), inclusive, of subdivision (a) of Section 51284.5.(2) (A) Other coursework requirements adopted by the governing board of the school district.(B) The governing board of a school district may, at its discretion, adopt a policy to exempt pupils from any coursework requirements adopted pursuant to subparagraph (A). It is the intent of the Legislature that the policy include a consultation with the pupil and the educational rights holder for the pupil regarding any impact of not fulfilling locally required coursework on the pupils ability to gain admission to an institution of higher education.(C) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1), a school district, county office of education, or charter school may, pursuant to a formal action of the governing board or body of the school district, county office of education, or charter school at a publicly noticed meeting, instead require only a one-semester course in American government and civics.(D) This paragraph does not affect a pupils rights pursuant to Section 51225.1 or 51225.31.(b) The governing board, with the active involvement of parents, administrators, teachers, and pupils, shall adopt alternative means for pupils to complete the prescribed course of study that may include practical demonstration of skills and competencies, supervised work experience or other outside school experience, career technical education classes offered in high schools, courses offered by regional occupational centers or programs, interdisciplinary study, independent study, and credit earned at a postsecondary educational institution. Requirements for graduation and specified alternative modes for completing the prescribed course of study shall be made available to pupils, parents, and the public.(c) On or before July 1, 2017, the department shall submit a comprehensive report to the appropriate policy committees of the Legislature on the addition of career technical education courses to satisfy the requirement specified in subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), including, but not limited to, the following information:(1) A comparison of the pupil enrollment in career technical education courses, world language courses, and visual and performing arts courses for the 200506 to 201112 school years, inclusive, to the pupil enrollment in career technical education courses, world language courses, and visual and performing arts courses for the 201213 to 201617 school years, inclusive.(2) The reasons, reported by school districts, that pupils give for choosing to enroll in a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement specified in subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a).(3) The type and number of career technical education courses that were conducted for the 200506 to 201112 school years, inclusive, compared to the type and number of career technical education courses that were conducted for the 201213 to 201617 school years, inclusive.(4) The number of career technical education courses that satisfied the subject matter requirements for admission to the University of California or the California State University.(5) The extent to which the career technical education courses chosen by pupils are aligned with the California Career Technical Education Model Curriculum Standards, and prepare pupils for employment, advanced training, and postsecondary education.(6) The number of career technical education courses that also satisfy the visual and performing arts requirement, and the number of career technical education courses that also satisfy the world language requirement.(7) Annual pupil dropout and graduation rates for the 201112 to 201415 school years, inclusive.(d) For purposes of completing the report described in subdivision (c), the Superintendent may use existing state resources and federal funds. If state or federal funds are not available or sufficient, the Superintendent may apply for and accept grants, and receive donations and other financial support from public or private sources for purposes of this section.(e) For purposes of completing the report described in subdivision (c), the Superintendent may accept support, including, but not limited to, financial and technical support, from high school reform advocates, teachers, chamber organizations, industry representatives, research centers, parents, and pupils.(f) The amendments made to this section by Section 1 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall become operative only upon an appropriation of funds by the Legislature for purposes of these amendments in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(g) This section shall become inoperative on the earlier of the following two dates:(1) On July 1, immediately following the first fiscal year after the enactment of Chapter 621 of the Statutes of 2011 in which the number of career technical education courses that, as determined by the department, satisfy the world language requirement for admission to the California State University and the University of California is at least twice the number of career technical education courses that meet these admission requirements as of January 1, 2012. This section shall be repealed on the following January 1, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before that date, deletes or extends the dates on which it becomes inoperative and is repealed. It is the intent of the Legislature that new career technical education courses that satisfy the world language requirement for admission to the California State University and the University of California focus on world languages aligned with career preparation, emphasizing real-world application and technical content in related career and technical education courses.(2) On July 1, 2027, and, as of January 1, 2028, is repealed.SEC. 2. Section 51225.3 of the Education Code, as amended by Section 2 of Chapter 560 of the Statutes of 2024, is amended to read:51225.3. (a) A pupil shall complete all of the following while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school:(1) At least the following numbers of courses in the subjects specified, each course having a duration of one year, unless otherwise specified:(A) Three courses in English.(B) Two courses in mathematics. If the governing board of a school district requires more than two courses in mathematics for graduation, the governing board of the school district may award a pupil up to one mathematics course credit pursuant to Section 51225.35.(C) Two courses in science, including biological and physical sciences.(D) (i) Three courses in social studies, including United States history and geography; world history, culture, and geography; a one-semester course in American government and civics; and a one-semester course in economics.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, including pupils enrolled in a county office of education or charter school, the course in American government and civics shall be a one-year course, except as provided in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (2).(E) One course in visual or performing arts or world language. For purposes of satisfying the requirement specified in this subparagraph, a course in American Sign Language shall be deemed a course in world language.(F) Two courses in physical education, unless the pupil has been exempted pursuant to this code.(G) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 202930 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a one-semester course in ethnic studies. A local educational agency, including a charter school, may require a full-year course in ethnic studies at its discretion. Commencing with the 202526 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer at least a one-semester course in ethnic studies.(ii) Subject to the course offerings of a local educational agency, including a charter school, a pupil may fulfill the requirement of clause (i) through the completion of any of the following types of courses:(I) A course based on the model curriculum developed pursuant to Section 51226.7.(II) An existing ethnic studies course.(III) An ethnic studies course taught as part of a course that has been approved as meeting the AG requirements of the University of California and the California State University.(IV) A locally developed ethnic studies course approved by the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school. The proposed course shall first be presented at a public meeting of the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school, and shall not be approved until a subsequent public meeting of the governing board or governing body at which the public has had the opportunity to express its views on the proposed course.(iii) A course that does not use ethnic studies content as the primary content through which the subject is taught shall not be used to satisfy the requirement of clause (i).(iv) A pupil completing a course described in clause (ii) shall also accrue credit for coursework in the subject that the course is offered, including, if applicable, credit towards satisfying a course required for a diploma of graduation from high school pursuant to this section.(v) Curriculum, instruction, and instructional materials for a course described in clause (ii) shall meet all of the following requirements:(I) Be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, religions, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, and diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners.(II) Not reflect or promote, directly or indirectly, any bias, bigotry, or discrimination against any person or group of persons on the basis of any category protected by Section 220.(III) Not teach or promote religious doctrine.(vi) It is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies, including charter schools, consider that, pursuant to Section 51226.7, the Instructional Quality Commission undertook a lengthy, thorough, deliberative, and inclusive process before submitting a model curriculum in ethnic studies to the state board. To the extent that local educational agencies, including charter schools, choose to locally develop an ethnic studies program for approval by their governing board or governing body, it is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies not use the portions of the draft model curriculum that were not adopted by the Instructional Quality Commission due to concerns related to bias, bigotry, and discrimination.(vii) The amendments made to this section by Section 2 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall not be construed to alter any other requirement of this section for pupils enrolled in a charter school.(H) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that shall not be combined with any other course.(ii) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, a pupil who completes a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course, may elect to be exempt from the requirement to complete a one-semester course in economics pursuant to subparagraph (D).(iii) (I) A local educational agency may elect to eliminate one or more locally required courses established pursuant to paragraph (2) in order to accommodate the requirement that pupils, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, complete a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance.(II) This clause does not constitute a change in, but is declaratory of, existing law.(iv) Commencing with the 202728 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer in all of its high schools at least a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course.(v) To satisfy the requirement of this subparagraph, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance shall include information for pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, on all of, and only, the topics listed in paragraphs (1) to (13), inclusive, of subdivision (a) of Section 51284.5.(2) (A) Other coursework requirements adopted by the governing board of the school district.(B) The governing board of a school district may, at its discretion, adopt a policy to exempt pupils from any coursework requirements adopted pursuant to subparagraph (A). It is the intent of the Legislature that the policy include a consultation with the pupil and the educational rights holder for the pupil regarding any impact of not fulfilling locally required coursework on the pupils ability to gain admission to an institution of higher education.(C) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1), a school district, county office of education, or charter school may, pursuant to a formal action of the governing board of body of the school district, county office of education, or charter school at publicly noticed meeting, instead require only a one-semester course in American government and civics.(D) This paragraph does not affect a pupils rights pursuant to Section 51225.1 or 51225.31.(b) The governing board, with the active involvement of parents, administrators, teachers, and pupils, shall adopt alternative means for pupils to complete the prescribed course of study that may include practical demonstration of skills and competencies, supervised work experience or other outside school experience, career technical education classes offered in high schools, courses offered by regional occupational centers or programs, interdisciplinary study, independent study, and credit earned at a postsecondary educational institution. Requirements for graduation and specified alternative modes for completing the prescribed course of study shall be made available to pupils, parents, and the public.(c) If a pupil completed a career technical education course that met the requirements of subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 51225.3, as amended by Section 3 of Chapter 621 of the Statutes of 2011, before the inoperative date of that section, that course shall be deemed to fulfill the requirements of subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of this section.(d) The amendments made to this section by Section 2 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall become operative only upon an appropriation of funds by the Legislature for purposes of these amendments in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(e) This section shall become operative upon the date that Section 51225.3, as amended by Section 35 of Chapter 571 of the Statutes of 2022, becomes inoperative.SEC. 3. Section 51225.34 is added to the Education Code, to read:51225.34. (a) The Instructional Quality Commission shall develop and recommend to the state board, for consideration and adoption by the state board, a curriculum guide and recommended resources department shall, in collaboration with, and subject to the approval of, the executive director of the state board, enter into a contract with a county office of education or a consortium of county offices of education for the purpose of developing a model curriculum for the one-year course in American government and civics required pursuant to clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 51225.3. The state board shall adopt the curriculum guide and recommended resources on or before July 1, 2028.(b) The curriculum guide required model curriculum developed pursuant to subdivision (a) shall include, but is not limited to, all of the following:(1) Fundamentals on the responsibilities of federal departments and agencies.(2) Fundamentals on California state government institutions, including the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, along with state agencies and departments.(3) Fundamentals on local government institutions, including city councils, county boards of supervisors, and other local bodies.(4) Fundamentals on special districts in California, including their purpose and membership.(5) Fundamentals on Tribal governments in California, including their purpose and membership.(6) Fundamentals on direct democracy in California, including ballot initiatives, referenda, and the recall process.(7) How to participate in the decisionmaking of federal, state, local, and special district institutions, including, but not limited to, how to contact representatives, how to attend state and local public meetings, and understanding pathways of influence.(8) The role of advocacy and interest groups in government decisionmaking.(9) All of the following relating to voting:(A) Eligibility for, and requirements relating to, registering to vote.(B) The various methods for registering to vote, including the ability to preregister to vote.(C) Acquiring official, nonpartisan election and voter information from county and state elections officials, including, but not limited to, accessing county and state elections internet websites.(D) Understanding the electoral systems used at the federal, state, and local level.(E) How to complete and submit a ballot through various methods, including vote by mail and in person at a polling place or vote center.(F) An individuals rights as a voter.(10) Tools for constructive political dialogue, including methods and techniques such as Socratic seminars and structured classroom debates, to teach pupils how to engage in respectful disagreements.(c) This section shall be implemented only upon appropriation by the Legislature for its purposes in the annual Budget Act or another statute.SEC. 4. Section 51473 of the Education Code is amended to read:51473. A school district that participates in the program under this article shall do all of the following:(a) Deem a pupils successful completion of a one-year course in American government and civics as satisfying the criteria adopted by the state board that a pupil demonstrates a competent understanding of United States and California constitutions; functions and governance of local governments; tribal government structures and organizations; the role of the citizen in a constitutional democracy; and democratic principles, concepts, and processes. A pupil who successfully completes a one-year course in American government and civics shall still be required to satisfy all other criteria adopted by the state board in order to receive the State Seal of Civic Engagement.(b) Maintain appropriate records in order to identify pupils who have earned a State Seal of Civic Engagement.(c) Affix the appropriate insignia to the diploma or transcript of each pupil who earns a State Seal of Civic Engagement.SEC. 5. If the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to Part 7 (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Government Code.
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
## The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
SECTION 1. Section 51225.3 of the Education Code, as amended by Section 1 of Chapter 560 of the Statutes of 2024, is amended to read:51225.3. (a) A pupil shall complete all of the following while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school:(1) At least the following numbers of courses in the subjects specified, each course having a duration of one year, unless otherwise specified:(A) Three courses in English.(B) Two courses in mathematics. If the governing board of a school district requires more than two courses in mathematics for graduation, the governing board of the school district may award a pupil up to one mathematics course credit pursuant to Section 51225.35.(C) Two courses in science, including biological and physical sciences.(D) (i) Three courses in social studies, including United States history and geography; world history, culture, and geography; a one-semester course in American government and civics; and a one-semester course in economics.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, including pupils enrolled in a county office of education or charter school, the course in American government and civics shall be a one-year course, except as provided in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (2).(E) One course in visual or performing arts, world language, or, commencing with the 201213 school year, career technical education.(i) For purposes of satisfying the requirement specified in this subparagraph, a course in American Sign Language shall be deemed a course in world language.(ii) For purposes of this subparagraph, a course in career technical education means a course in a district-operated career technical education program that is aligned to the career technical model curriculum standards and framework adopted by the state board, including courses through a regional occupational center or program operated by a county superintendent of schools or pursuant to a joint powers agreement.(iii) This subparagraph does not require a school or school district that currently does not offer career technical education courses to start new career technical education programs for purposes of this section.(iv) If a school district or county office of education elects to allow a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement imposed by this subparagraph, the governing board of the school district or county office of education, before offering that alternative to pupils, shall notify parents, teachers, pupils, and the public at a regularly scheduled meeting of the governing board of all of the following:(I) The intent to offer career technical education courses to fulfill the graduation requirement specified in this subparagraph.(II) The impact that offering career technical education courses, pursuant to this subparagraph, will have on the availability of courses that meet the eligibility requirements for admission to the California State University and the University of California, and whether the career technical education courses to be offered pursuant to this subparagraph are approved to satisfy those eligibility requirements. If a school district elects to allow a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement imposed by this subparagraph, the school district shall comply with subdivision (l) of Section 48980.(III) The distinction, if any, between the high school graduation requirements of the school district or county office of education, and the eligibility requirements for admission to the California State University and the University of California.(F) Two courses in physical education, unless the pupil has been exempted pursuant to this code.(G) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 202930 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a one-semester course in ethnic studies. A local educational agency, including a charter school, may require a full-year course in ethnic studies at its discretion. Commencing with the 202526 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer at least a one-semester course in ethnic studies.(ii) Subject to the course offerings of a local educational agency, including a charter school, a pupil may fulfill the requirement of clause (i) through the completion of any of the following types of courses:(I) A course based on the model curriculum developed pursuant to Section 51226.7.(II) An existing ethnic studies course.(III) An ethnic studies course taught as part of a course that has been approved as meeting the AG requirements of the University of California and the California State University.(IV) A locally developed ethnic studies course approved by the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school. The proposed course shall first be presented at a public meeting of the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school, and shall not be approved until a subsequent public meeting of the governing board or governing body at which the public has had the opportunity to express its views on the proposed course.(iii) A course that does not use ethnic studies content as the primary content through which the subject is taught shall not be used to satisfy the requirement of clause (i).(iv) A pupil completing a course described in clause (ii) shall also accrue credit for coursework in the subject that the course is offered, including, if applicable, credit towards satisfying a course required for a diploma of graduation from high school pursuant to this section.(v) Curriculum, instruction, and instructional materials for a course described in clause (ii) shall meet all of the following requirements:(I) Be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, religions, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, and diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners.(II) Not reflect or promote, directly or indirectly, any bias, bigotry, or discrimination against any person or group of persons on the basis of any category protected by Section 220.(III) Not teach or promote religious doctrine.(vi) It is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies, including charter schools, consider that, pursuant to Section 51226.7, the Instructional Quality Commission undertook a lengthy, thorough, deliberative, and inclusive process before submitting a model curriculum in ethnic studies to the state board. To the extent that local educational agencies, including charter schools, choose to locally develop an ethnic studies program for approval by their governing board or governing body, it is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies not use the portions of the draft model curriculum that were not adopted by the Instructional Quality Commission due to concerns related to bias, bigotry, and discrimination.(vii) The amendments made to this section by Section 1 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall not be construed to alter any other requirement of this section for pupils enrolled in a charter school.(H) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that shall not be combined with any other course.(ii) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, a pupil who completes a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course, may elect to be exempt from the requirement to complete a one-semester course in economics pursuant to subparagraph (D).(iii) (I) A local educational agency may elect to eliminate one or more locally required courses established pursuant to paragraph (2) in order to accommodate the requirement that pupils, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, complete a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance.(II) This clause does not constitute a change in, but is declaratory of, existing law.(iv) Commencing with the 202728 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer in all of its high schools at least a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course.(v) To satisfy the requirement of this subparagraph, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance shall include information for pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, on all of, and only, the topics listed in paragraphs (1) to (13), inclusive, of subdivision (a) of Section 51284.5.(2) (A) Other coursework requirements adopted by the governing board of the school district.(B) The governing board of a school district may, at its discretion, adopt a policy to exempt pupils from any coursework requirements adopted pursuant to subparagraph (A). It is the intent of the Legislature that the policy include a consultation with the pupil and the educational rights holder for the pupil regarding any impact of not fulfilling locally required coursework on the pupils ability to gain admission to an institution of higher education.(C) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1), a school district, county office of education, or charter school may, pursuant to a formal action of the governing board or body of the school district, county office of education, or charter school at a publicly noticed meeting, instead require only a one-semester course in American government and civics.(D) This paragraph does not affect a pupils rights pursuant to Section 51225.1 or 51225.31.(b) The governing board, with the active involvement of parents, administrators, teachers, and pupils, shall adopt alternative means for pupils to complete the prescribed course of study that may include practical demonstration of skills and competencies, supervised work experience or other outside school experience, career technical education classes offered in high schools, courses offered by regional occupational centers or programs, interdisciplinary study, independent study, and credit earned at a postsecondary educational institution. Requirements for graduation and specified alternative modes for completing the prescribed course of study shall be made available to pupils, parents, and the public.(c) On or before July 1, 2017, the department shall submit a comprehensive report to the appropriate policy committees of the Legislature on the addition of career technical education courses to satisfy the requirement specified in subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), including, but not limited to, the following information:(1) A comparison of the pupil enrollment in career technical education courses, world language courses, and visual and performing arts courses for the 200506 to 201112 school years, inclusive, to the pupil enrollment in career technical education courses, world language courses, and visual and performing arts courses for the 201213 to 201617 school years, inclusive.(2) The reasons, reported by school districts, that pupils give for choosing to enroll in a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement specified in subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a).(3) The type and number of career technical education courses that were conducted for the 200506 to 201112 school years, inclusive, compared to the type and number of career technical education courses that were conducted for the 201213 to 201617 school years, inclusive.(4) The number of career technical education courses that satisfied the subject matter requirements for admission to the University of California or the California State University.(5) The extent to which the career technical education courses chosen by pupils are aligned with the California Career Technical Education Model Curriculum Standards, and prepare pupils for employment, advanced training, and postsecondary education.(6) The number of career technical education courses that also satisfy the visual and performing arts requirement, and the number of career technical education courses that also satisfy the world language requirement.(7) Annual pupil dropout and graduation rates for the 201112 to 201415 school years, inclusive.(d) For purposes of completing the report described in subdivision (c), the Superintendent may use existing state resources and federal funds. If state or federal funds are not available or sufficient, the Superintendent may apply for and accept grants, and receive donations and other financial support from public or private sources for purposes of this section.(e) For purposes of completing the report described in subdivision (c), the Superintendent may accept support, including, but not limited to, financial and technical support, from high school reform advocates, teachers, chamber organizations, industry representatives, research centers, parents, and pupils.(f) The amendments made to this section by Section 1 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall become operative only upon an appropriation of funds by the Legislature for purposes of these amendments in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(g) This section shall become inoperative on the earlier of the following two dates:(1) On July 1, immediately following the first fiscal year after the enactment of Chapter 621 of the Statutes of 2011 in which the number of career technical education courses that, as determined by the department, satisfy the world language requirement for admission to the California State University and the University of California is at least twice the number of career technical education courses that meet these admission requirements as of January 1, 2012. This section shall be repealed on the following January 1, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before that date, deletes or extends the dates on which it becomes inoperative and is repealed. It is the intent of the Legislature that new career technical education courses that satisfy the world language requirement for admission to the California State University and the University of California focus on world languages aligned with career preparation, emphasizing real-world application and technical content in related career and technical education courses.(2) On July 1, 2027, and, as of January 1, 2028, is repealed.
SECTION 1. Section 51225.3 of the Education Code, as amended by Section 1 of Chapter 560 of the Statutes of 2024, is amended to read:
### SECTION 1.
51225.3. (a) A pupil shall complete all of the following while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school:(1) At least the following numbers of courses in the subjects specified, each course having a duration of one year, unless otherwise specified:(A) Three courses in English.(B) Two courses in mathematics. If the governing board of a school district requires more than two courses in mathematics for graduation, the governing board of the school district may award a pupil up to one mathematics course credit pursuant to Section 51225.35.(C) Two courses in science, including biological and physical sciences.(D) (i) Three courses in social studies, including United States history and geography; world history, culture, and geography; a one-semester course in American government and civics; and a one-semester course in economics.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, including pupils enrolled in a county office of education or charter school, the course in American government and civics shall be a one-year course, except as provided in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (2).(E) One course in visual or performing arts, world language, or, commencing with the 201213 school year, career technical education.(i) For purposes of satisfying the requirement specified in this subparagraph, a course in American Sign Language shall be deemed a course in world language.(ii) For purposes of this subparagraph, a course in career technical education means a course in a district-operated career technical education program that is aligned to the career technical model curriculum standards and framework adopted by the state board, including courses through a regional occupational center or program operated by a county superintendent of schools or pursuant to a joint powers agreement.(iii) This subparagraph does not require a school or school district that currently does not offer career technical education courses to start new career technical education programs for purposes of this section.(iv) If a school district or county office of education elects to allow a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement imposed by this subparagraph, the governing board of the school district or county office of education, before offering that alternative to pupils, shall notify parents, teachers, pupils, and the public at a regularly scheduled meeting of the governing board of all of the following:(I) The intent to offer career technical education courses to fulfill the graduation requirement specified in this subparagraph.(II) The impact that offering career technical education courses, pursuant to this subparagraph, will have on the availability of courses that meet the eligibility requirements for admission to the California State University and the University of California, and whether the career technical education courses to be offered pursuant to this subparagraph are approved to satisfy those eligibility requirements. If a school district elects to allow a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement imposed by this subparagraph, the school district shall comply with subdivision (l) of Section 48980.(III) The distinction, if any, between the high school graduation requirements of the school district or county office of education, and the eligibility requirements for admission to the California State University and the University of California.(F) Two courses in physical education, unless the pupil has been exempted pursuant to this code.(G) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 202930 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a one-semester course in ethnic studies. A local educational agency, including a charter school, may require a full-year course in ethnic studies at its discretion. Commencing with the 202526 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer at least a one-semester course in ethnic studies.(ii) Subject to the course offerings of a local educational agency, including a charter school, a pupil may fulfill the requirement of clause (i) through the completion of any of the following types of courses:(I) A course based on the model curriculum developed pursuant to Section 51226.7.(II) An existing ethnic studies course.(III) An ethnic studies course taught as part of a course that has been approved as meeting the AG requirements of the University of California and the California State University.(IV) A locally developed ethnic studies course approved by the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school. The proposed course shall first be presented at a public meeting of the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school, and shall not be approved until a subsequent public meeting of the governing board or governing body at which the public has had the opportunity to express its views on the proposed course.(iii) A course that does not use ethnic studies content as the primary content through which the subject is taught shall not be used to satisfy the requirement of clause (i).(iv) A pupil completing a course described in clause (ii) shall also accrue credit for coursework in the subject that the course is offered, including, if applicable, credit towards satisfying a course required for a diploma of graduation from high school pursuant to this section.(v) Curriculum, instruction, and instructional materials for a course described in clause (ii) shall meet all of the following requirements:(I) Be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, religions, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, and diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners.(II) Not reflect or promote, directly or indirectly, any bias, bigotry, or discrimination against any person or group of persons on the basis of any category protected by Section 220.(III) Not teach or promote religious doctrine.(vi) It is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies, including charter schools, consider that, pursuant to Section 51226.7, the Instructional Quality Commission undertook a lengthy, thorough, deliberative, and inclusive process before submitting a model curriculum in ethnic studies to the state board. To the extent that local educational agencies, including charter schools, choose to locally develop an ethnic studies program for approval by their governing board or governing body, it is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies not use the portions of the draft model curriculum that were not adopted by the Instructional Quality Commission due to concerns related to bias, bigotry, and discrimination.(vii) The amendments made to this section by Section 1 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall not be construed to alter any other requirement of this section for pupils enrolled in a charter school.(H) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that shall not be combined with any other course.(ii) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, a pupil who completes a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course, may elect to be exempt from the requirement to complete a one-semester course in economics pursuant to subparagraph (D).(iii) (I) A local educational agency may elect to eliminate one or more locally required courses established pursuant to paragraph (2) in order to accommodate the requirement that pupils, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, complete a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance.(II) This clause does not constitute a change in, but is declaratory of, existing law.(iv) Commencing with the 202728 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer in all of its high schools at least a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course.(v) To satisfy the requirement of this subparagraph, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance shall include information for pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, on all of, and only, the topics listed in paragraphs (1) to (13), inclusive, of subdivision (a) of Section 51284.5.(2) (A) Other coursework requirements adopted by the governing board of the school district.(B) The governing board of a school district may, at its discretion, adopt a policy to exempt pupils from any coursework requirements adopted pursuant to subparagraph (A). It is the intent of the Legislature that the policy include a consultation with the pupil and the educational rights holder for the pupil regarding any impact of not fulfilling locally required coursework on the pupils ability to gain admission to an institution of higher education.(C) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1), a school district, county office of education, or charter school may, pursuant to a formal action of the governing board or body of the school district, county office of education, or charter school at a publicly noticed meeting, instead require only a one-semester course in American government and civics.(D) This paragraph does not affect a pupils rights pursuant to Section 51225.1 or 51225.31.(b) The governing board, with the active involvement of parents, administrators, teachers, and pupils, shall adopt alternative means for pupils to complete the prescribed course of study that may include practical demonstration of skills and competencies, supervised work experience or other outside school experience, career technical education classes offered in high schools, courses offered by regional occupational centers or programs, interdisciplinary study, independent study, and credit earned at a postsecondary educational institution. Requirements for graduation and specified alternative modes for completing the prescribed course of study shall be made available to pupils, parents, and the public.(c) On or before July 1, 2017, the department shall submit a comprehensive report to the appropriate policy committees of the Legislature on the addition of career technical education courses to satisfy the requirement specified in subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), including, but not limited to, the following information:(1) A comparison of the pupil enrollment in career technical education courses, world language courses, and visual and performing arts courses for the 200506 to 201112 school years, inclusive, to the pupil enrollment in career technical education courses, world language courses, and visual and performing arts courses for the 201213 to 201617 school years, inclusive.(2) The reasons, reported by school districts, that pupils give for choosing to enroll in a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement specified in subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a).(3) The type and number of career technical education courses that were conducted for the 200506 to 201112 school years, inclusive, compared to the type and number of career technical education courses that were conducted for the 201213 to 201617 school years, inclusive.(4) The number of career technical education courses that satisfied the subject matter requirements for admission to the University of California or the California State University.(5) The extent to which the career technical education courses chosen by pupils are aligned with the California Career Technical Education Model Curriculum Standards, and prepare pupils for employment, advanced training, and postsecondary education.(6) The number of career technical education courses that also satisfy the visual and performing arts requirement, and the number of career technical education courses that also satisfy the world language requirement.(7) Annual pupil dropout and graduation rates for the 201112 to 201415 school years, inclusive.(d) For purposes of completing the report described in subdivision (c), the Superintendent may use existing state resources and federal funds. If state or federal funds are not available or sufficient, the Superintendent may apply for and accept grants, and receive donations and other financial support from public or private sources for purposes of this section.(e) For purposes of completing the report described in subdivision (c), the Superintendent may accept support, including, but not limited to, financial and technical support, from high school reform advocates, teachers, chamber organizations, industry representatives, research centers, parents, and pupils.(f) The amendments made to this section by Section 1 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall become operative only upon an appropriation of funds by the Legislature for purposes of these amendments in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(g) This section shall become inoperative on the earlier of the following two dates:(1) On July 1, immediately following the first fiscal year after the enactment of Chapter 621 of the Statutes of 2011 in which the number of career technical education courses that, as determined by the department, satisfy the world language requirement for admission to the California State University and the University of California is at least twice the number of career technical education courses that meet these admission requirements as of January 1, 2012. This section shall be repealed on the following January 1, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before that date, deletes or extends the dates on which it becomes inoperative and is repealed. It is the intent of the Legislature that new career technical education courses that satisfy the world language requirement for admission to the California State University and the University of California focus on world languages aligned with career preparation, emphasizing real-world application and technical content in related career and technical education courses.(2) On July 1, 2027, and, as of January 1, 2028, is repealed.
51225.3. (a) A pupil shall complete all of the following while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school:(1) At least the following numbers of courses in the subjects specified, each course having a duration of one year, unless otherwise specified:(A) Three courses in English.(B) Two courses in mathematics. If the governing board of a school district requires more than two courses in mathematics for graduation, the governing board of the school district may award a pupil up to one mathematics course credit pursuant to Section 51225.35.(C) Two courses in science, including biological and physical sciences.(D) (i) Three courses in social studies, including United States history and geography; world history, culture, and geography; a one-semester course in American government and civics; and a one-semester course in economics.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, including pupils enrolled in a county office of education or charter school, the course in American government and civics shall be a one-year course, except as provided in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (2).(E) One course in visual or performing arts, world language, or, commencing with the 201213 school year, career technical education.(i) For purposes of satisfying the requirement specified in this subparagraph, a course in American Sign Language shall be deemed a course in world language.(ii) For purposes of this subparagraph, a course in career technical education means a course in a district-operated career technical education program that is aligned to the career technical model curriculum standards and framework adopted by the state board, including courses through a regional occupational center or program operated by a county superintendent of schools or pursuant to a joint powers agreement.(iii) This subparagraph does not require a school or school district that currently does not offer career technical education courses to start new career technical education programs for purposes of this section.(iv) If a school district or county office of education elects to allow a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement imposed by this subparagraph, the governing board of the school district or county office of education, before offering that alternative to pupils, shall notify parents, teachers, pupils, and the public at a regularly scheduled meeting of the governing board of all of the following:(I) The intent to offer career technical education courses to fulfill the graduation requirement specified in this subparagraph.(II) The impact that offering career technical education courses, pursuant to this subparagraph, will have on the availability of courses that meet the eligibility requirements for admission to the California State University and the University of California, and whether the career technical education courses to be offered pursuant to this subparagraph are approved to satisfy those eligibility requirements. If a school district elects to allow a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement imposed by this subparagraph, the school district shall comply with subdivision (l) of Section 48980.(III) The distinction, if any, between the high school graduation requirements of the school district or county office of education, and the eligibility requirements for admission to the California State University and the University of California.(F) Two courses in physical education, unless the pupil has been exempted pursuant to this code.(G) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 202930 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a one-semester course in ethnic studies. A local educational agency, including a charter school, may require a full-year course in ethnic studies at its discretion. Commencing with the 202526 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer at least a one-semester course in ethnic studies.(ii) Subject to the course offerings of a local educational agency, including a charter school, a pupil may fulfill the requirement of clause (i) through the completion of any of the following types of courses:(I) A course based on the model curriculum developed pursuant to Section 51226.7.(II) An existing ethnic studies course.(III) An ethnic studies course taught as part of a course that has been approved as meeting the AG requirements of the University of California and the California State University.(IV) A locally developed ethnic studies course approved by the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school. The proposed course shall first be presented at a public meeting of the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school, and shall not be approved until a subsequent public meeting of the governing board or governing body at which the public has had the opportunity to express its views on the proposed course.(iii) A course that does not use ethnic studies content as the primary content through which the subject is taught shall not be used to satisfy the requirement of clause (i).(iv) A pupil completing a course described in clause (ii) shall also accrue credit for coursework in the subject that the course is offered, including, if applicable, credit towards satisfying a course required for a diploma of graduation from high school pursuant to this section.(v) Curriculum, instruction, and instructional materials for a course described in clause (ii) shall meet all of the following requirements:(I) Be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, religions, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, and diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners.(II) Not reflect or promote, directly or indirectly, any bias, bigotry, or discrimination against any person or group of persons on the basis of any category protected by Section 220.(III) Not teach or promote religious doctrine.(vi) It is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies, including charter schools, consider that, pursuant to Section 51226.7, the Instructional Quality Commission undertook a lengthy, thorough, deliberative, and inclusive process before submitting a model curriculum in ethnic studies to the state board. To the extent that local educational agencies, including charter schools, choose to locally develop an ethnic studies program for approval by their governing board or governing body, it is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies not use the portions of the draft model curriculum that were not adopted by the Instructional Quality Commission due to concerns related to bias, bigotry, and discrimination.(vii) The amendments made to this section by Section 1 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall not be construed to alter any other requirement of this section for pupils enrolled in a charter school.(H) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that shall not be combined with any other course.(ii) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, a pupil who completes a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course, may elect to be exempt from the requirement to complete a one-semester course in economics pursuant to subparagraph (D).(iii) (I) A local educational agency may elect to eliminate one or more locally required courses established pursuant to paragraph (2) in order to accommodate the requirement that pupils, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, complete a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance.(II) This clause does not constitute a change in, but is declaratory of, existing law.(iv) Commencing with the 202728 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer in all of its high schools at least a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course.(v) To satisfy the requirement of this subparagraph, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance shall include information for pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, on all of, and only, the topics listed in paragraphs (1) to (13), inclusive, of subdivision (a) of Section 51284.5.(2) (A) Other coursework requirements adopted by the governing board of the school district.(B) The governing board of a school district may, at its discretion, adopt a policy to exempt pupils from any coursework requirements adopted pursuant to subparagraph (A). It is the intent of the Legislature that the policy include a consultation with the pupil and the educational rights holder for the pupil regarding any impact of not fulfilling locally required coursework on the pupils ability to gain admission to an institution of higher education.(C) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1), a school district, county office of education, or charter school may, pursuant to a formal action of the governing board or body of the school district, county office of education, or charter school at a publicly noticed meeting, instead require only a one-semester course in American government and civics.(D) This paragraph does not affect a pupils rights pursuant to Section 51225.1 or 51225.31.(b) The governing board, with the active involvement of parents, administrators, teachers, and pupils, shall adopt alternative means for pupils to complete the prescribed course of study that may include practical demonstration of skills and competencies, supervised work experience or other outside school experience, career technical education classes offered in high schools, courses offered by regional occupational centers or programs, interdisciplinary study, independent study, and credit earned at a postsecondary educational institution. Requirements for graduation and specified alternative modes for completing the prescribed course of study shall be made available to pupils, parents, and the public.(c) On or before July 1, 2017, the department shall submit a comprehensive report to the appropriate policy committees of the Legislature on the addition of career technical education courses to satisfy the requirement specified in subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), including, but not limited to, the following information:(1) A comparison of the pupil enrollment in career technical education courses, world language courses, and visual and performing arts courses for the 200506 to 201112 school years, inclusive, to the pupil enrollment in career technical education courses, world language courses, and visual and performing arts courses for the 201213 to 201617 school years, inclusive.(2) The reasons, reported by school districts, that pupils give for choosing to enroll in a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement specified in subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a).(3) The type and number of career technical education courses that were conducted for the 200506 to 201112 school years, inclusive, compared to the type and number of career technical education courses that were conducted for the 201213 to 201617 school years, inclusive.(4) The number of career technical education courses that satisfied the subject matter requirements for admission to the University of California or the California State University.(5) The extent to which the career technical education courses chosen by pupils are aligned with the California Career Technical Education Model Curriculum Standards, and prepare pupils for employment, advanced training, and postsecondary education.(6) The number of career technical education courses that also satisfy the visual and performing arts requirement, and the number of career technical education courses that also satisfy the world language requirement.(7) Annual pupil dropout and graduation rates for the 201112 to 201415 school years, inclusive.(d) For purposes of completing the report described in subdivision (c), the Superintendent may use existing state resources and federal funds. If state or federal funds are not available or sufficient, the Superintendent may apply for and accept grants, and receive donations and other financial support from public or private sources for purposes of this section.(e) For purposes of completing the report described in subdivision (c), the Superintendent may accept support, including, but not limited to, financial and technical support, from high school reform advocates, teachers, chamber organizations, industry representatives, research centers, parents, and pupils.(f) The amendments made to this section by Section 1 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall become operative only upon an appropriation of funds by the Legislature for purposes of these amendments in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(g) This section shall become inoperative on the earlier of the following two dates:(1) On July 1, immediately following the first fiscal year after the enactment of Chapter 621 of the Statutes of 2011 in which the number of career technical education courses that, as determined by the department, satisfy the world language requirement for admission to the California State University and the University of California is at least twice the number of career technical education courses that meet these admission requirements as of January 1, 2012. This section shall be repealed on the following January 1, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before that date, deletes or extends the dates on which it becomes inoperative and is repealed. It is the intent of the Legislature that new career technical education courses that satisfy the world language requirement for admission to the California State University and the University of California focus on world languages aligned with career preparation, emphasizing real-world application and technical content in related career and technical education courses.(2) On July 1, 2027, and, as of January 1, 2028, is repealed.
51225.3. (a) A pupil shall complete all of the following while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school:(1) At least the following numbers of courses in the subjects specified, each course having a duration of one year, unless otherwise specified:(A) Three courses in English.(B) Two courses in mathematics. If the governing board of a school district requires more than two courses in mathematics for graduation, the governing board of the school district may award a pupil up to one mathematics course credit pursuant to Section 51225.35.(C) Two courses in science, including biological and physical sciences.(D) (i) Three courses in social studies, including United States history and geography; world history, culture, and geography; a one-semester course in American government and civics; and a one-semester course in economics.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, including pupils enrolled in a county office of education or charter school, the course in American government and civics shall be a one-year course, except as provided in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (2).(E) One course in visual or performing arts, world language, or, commencing with the 201213 school year, career technical education.(i) For purposes of satisfying the requirement specified in this subparagraph, a course in American Sign Language shall be deemed a course in world language.(ii) For purposes of this subparagraph, a course in career technical education means a course in a district-operated career technical education program that is aligned to the career technical model curriculum standards and framework adopted by the state board, including courses through a regional occupational center or program operated by a county superintendent of schools or pursuant to a joint powers agreement.(iii) This subparagraph does not require a school or school district that currently does not offer career technical education courses to start new career technical education programs for purposes of this section.(iv) If a school district or county office of education elects to allow a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement imposed by this subparagraph, the governing board of the school district or county office of education, before offering that alternative to pupils, shall notify parents, teachers, pupils, and the public at a regularly scheduled meeting of the governing board of all of the following:(I) The intent to offer career technical education courses to fulfill the graduation requirement specified in this subparagraph.(II) The impact that offering career technical education courses, pursuant to this subparagraph, will have on the availability of courses that meet the eligibility requirements for admission to the California State University and the University of California, and whether the career technical education courses to be offered pursuant to this subparagraph are approved to satisfy those eligibility requirements. If a school district elects to allow a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement imposed by this subparagraph, the school district shall comply with subdivision (l) of Section 48980.(III) The distinction, if any, between the high school graduation requirements of the school district or county office of education, and the eligibility requirements for admission to the California State University and the University of California.(F) Two courses in physical education, unless the pupil has been exempted pursuant to this code.(G) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 202930 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a one-semester course in ethnic studies. A local educational agency, including a charter school, may require a full-year course in ethnic studies at its discretion. Commencing with the 202526 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer at least a one-semester course in ethnic studies.(ii) Subject to the course offerings of a local educational agency, including a charter school, a pupil may fulfill the requirement of clause (i) through the completion of any of the following types of courses:(I) A course based on the model curriculum developed pursuant to Section 51226.7.(II) An existing ethnic studies course.(III) An ethnic studies course taught as part of a course that has been approved as meeting the AG requirements of the University of California and the California State University.(IV) A locally developed ethnic studies course approved by the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school. The proposed course shall first be presented at a public meeting of the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school, and shall not be approved until a subsequent public meeting of the governing board or governing body at which the public has had the opportunity to express its views on the proposed course.(iii) A course that does not use ethnic studies content as the primary content through which the subject is taught shall not be used to satisfy the requirement of clause (i).(iv) A pupil completing a course described in clause (ii) shall also accrue credit for coursework in the subject that the course is offered, including, if applicable, credit towards satisfying a course required for a diploma of graduation from high school pursuant to this section.(v) Curriculum, instruction, and instructional materials for a course described in clause (ii) shall meet all of the following requirements:(I) Be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, religions, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, and diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners.(II) Not reflect or promote, directly or indirectly, any bias, bigotry, or discrimination against any person or group of persons on the basis of any category protected by Section 220.(III) Not teach or promote religious doctrine.(vi) It is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies, including charter schools, consider that, pursuant to Section 51226.7, the Instructional Quality Commission undertook a lengthy, thorough, deliberative, and inclusive process before submitting a model curriculum in ethnic studies to the state board. To the extent that local educational agencies, including charter schools, choose to locally develop an ethnic studies program for approval by their governing board or governing body, it is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies not use the portions of the draft model curriculum that were not adopted by the Instructional Quality Commission due to concerns related to bias, bigotry, and discrimination.(vii) The amendments made to this section by Section 1 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall not be construed to alter any other requirement of this section for pupils enrolled in a charter school.(H) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that shall not be combined with any other course.(ii) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, a pupil who completes a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course, may elect to be exempt from the requirement to complete a one-semester course in economics pursuant to subparagraph (D).(iii) (I) A local educational agency may elect to eliminate one or more locally required courses established pursuant to paragraph (2) in order to accommodate the requirement that pupils, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, complete a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance.(II) This clause does not constitute a change in, but is declaratory of, existing law.(iv) Commencing with the 202728 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer in all of its high schools at least a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course.(v) To satisfy the requirement of this subparagraph, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance shall include information for pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, on all of, and only, the topics listed in paragraphs (1) to (13), inclusive, of subdivision (a) of Section 51284.5.(2) (A) Other coursework requirements adopted by the governing board of the school district.(B) The governing board of a school district may, at its discretion, adopt a policy to exempt pupils from any coursework requirements adopted pursuant to subparagraph (A). It is the intent of the Legislature that the policy include a consultation with the pupil and the educational rights holder for the pupil regarding any impact of not fulfilling locally required coursework on the pupils ability to gain admission to an institution of higher education.(C) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1), a school district, county office of education, or charter school may, pursuant to a formal action of the governing board or body of the school district, county office of education, or charter school at a publicly noticed meeting, instead require only a one-semester course in American government and civics.(D) This paragraph does not affect a pupils rights pursuant to Section 51225.1 or 51225.31.(b) The governing board, with the active involvement of parents, administrators, teachers, and pupils, shall adopt alternative means for pupils to complete the prescribed course of study that may include practical demonstration of skills and competencies, supervised work experience or other outside school experience, career technical education classes offered in high schools, courses offered by regional occupational centers or programs, interdisciplinary study, independent study, and credit earned at a postsecondary educational institution. Requirements for graduation and specified alternative modes for completing the prescribed course of study shall be made available to pupils, parents, and the public.(c) On or before July 1, 2017, the department shall submit a comprehensive report to the appropriate policy committees of the Legislature on the addition of career technical education courses to satisfy the requirement specified in subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), including, but not limited to, the following information:(1) A comparison of the pupil enrollment in career technical education courses, world language courses, and visual and performing arts courses for the 200506 to 201112 school years, inclusive, to the pupil enrollment in career technical education courses, world language courses, and visual and performing arts courses for the 201213 to 201617 school years, inclusive.(2) The reasons, reported by school districts, that pupils give for choosing to enroll in a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement specified in subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a).(3) The type and number of career technical education courses that were conducted for the 200506 to 201112 school years, inclusive, compared to the type and number of career technical education courses that were conducted for the 201213 to 201617 school years, inclusive.(4) The number of career technical education courses that satisfied the subject matter requirements for admission to the University of California or the California State University.(5) The extent to which the career technical education courses chosen by pupils are aligned with the California Career Technical Education Model Curriculum Standards, and prepare pupils for employment, advanced training, and postsecondary education.(6) The number of career technical education courses that also satisfy the visual and performing arts requirement, and the number of career technical education courses that also satisfy the world language requirement.(7) Annual pupil dropout and graduation rates for the 201112 to 201415 school years, inclusive.(d) For purposes of completing the report described in subdivision (c), the Superintendent may use existing state resources and federal funds. If state or federal funds are not available or sufficient, the Superintendent may apply for and accept grants, and receive donations and other financial support from public or private sources for purposes of this section.(e) For purposes of completing the report described in subdivision (c), the Superintendent may accept support, including, but not limited to, financial and technical support, from high school reform advocates, teachers, chamber organizations, industry representatives, research centers, parents, and pupils.(f) The amendments made to this section by Section 1 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall become operative only upon an appropriation of funds by the Legislature for purposes of these amendments in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(g) This section shall become inoperative on the earlier of the following two dates:(1) On July 1, immediately following the first fiscal year after the enactment of Chapter 621 of the Statutes of 2011 in which the number of career technical education courses that, as determined by the department, satisfy the world language requirement for admission to the California State University and the University of California is at least twice the number of career technical education courses that meet these admission requirements as of January 1, 2012. This section shall be repealed on the following January 1, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before that date, deletes or extends the dates on which it becomes inoperative and is repealed. It is the intent of the Legislature that new career technical education courses that satisfy the world language requirement for admission to the California State University and the University of California focus on world languages aligned with career preparation, emphasizing real-world application and technical content in related career and technical education courses.(2) On July 1, 2027, and, as of January 1, 2028, is repealed.
51225.3. (a) A pupil shall complete all of the following while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school:
(1) At least the following numbers of courses in the subjects specified, each course having a duration of one year, unless otherwise specified:
(A) Three courses in English.
(B) Two courses in mathematics. If the governing board of a school district requires more than two courses in mathematics for graduation, the governing board of the school district may award a pupil up to one mathematics course credit pursuant to Section 51225.35.
(C) Two courses in science, including biological and physical sciences.
(D) (i) Three courses in social studies, including United States history and geography; world history, culture, and geography; a one-semester course in American government and civics; and a one-semester course in economics.
(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, including pupils enrolled in a county office of education or charter school, the course in American government and civics shall be a one-year course, except as provided in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (2).
(E) One course in visual or performing arts, world language, or, commencing with the 201213 school year, career technical education.
(i) For purposes of satisfying the requirement specified in this subparagraph, a course in American Sign Language shall be deemed a course in world language.
(ii) For purposes of this subparagraph, a course in career technical education means a course in a district-operated career technical education program that is aligned to the career technical model curriculum standards and framework adopted by the state board, including courses through a regional occupational center or program operated by a county superintendent of schools or pursuant to a joint powers agreement.
(iii) This subparagraph does not require a school or school district that currently does not offer career technical education courses to start new career technical education programs for purposes of this section.
(iv) If a school district or county office of education elects to allow a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement imposed by this subparagraph, the governing board of the school district or county office of education, before offering that alternative to pupils, shall notify parents, teachers, pupils, and the public at a regularly scheduled meeting of the governing board of all of the following:
(I) The intent to offer career technical education courses to fulfill the graduation requirement specified in this subparagraph.
(II) The impact that offering career technical education courses, pursuant to this subparagraph, will have on the availability of courses that meet the eligibility requirements for admission to the California State University and the University of California, and whether the career technical education courses to be offered pursuant to this subparagraph are approved to satisfy those eligibility requirements. If a school district elects to allow a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement imposed by this subparagraph, the school district shall comply with subdivision (l) of Section 48980.
(III) The distinction, if any, between the high school graduation requirements of the school district or county office of education, and the eligibility requirements for admission to the California State University and the University of California.
(F) Two courses in physical education, unless the pupil has been exempted pursuant to this code.
(G) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 202930 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a one-semester course in ethnic studies. A local educational agency, including a charter school, may require a full-year course in ethnic studies at its discretion. Commencing with the 202526 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer at least a one-semester course in ethnic studies.
(ii) Subject to the course offerings of a local educational agency, including a charter school, a pupil may fulfill the requirement of clause (i) through the completion of any of the following types of courses:
(I) A course based on the model curriculum developed pursuant to Section 51226.7.
(II) An existing ethnic studies course.
(III) An ethnic studies course taught as part of a course that has been approved as meeting the AG requirements of the University of California and the California State University.
(IV) A locally developed ethnic studies course approved by the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school. The proposed course shall first be presented at a public meeting of the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school, and shall not be approved until a subsequent public meeting of the governing board or governing body at which the public has had the opportunity to express its views on the proposed course.
(iii) A course that does not use ethnic studies content as the primary content through which the subject is taught shall not be used to satisfy the requirement of clause (i).
(iv) A pupil completing a course described in clause (ii) shall also accrue credit for coursework in the subject that the course is offered, including, if applicable, credit towards satisfying a course required for a diploma of graduation from high school pursuant to this section.
(v) Curriculum, instruction, and instructional materials for a course described in clause (ii) shall meet all of the following requirements:
(I) Be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, religions, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, and diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners.
(II) Not reflect or promote, directly or indirectly, any bias, bigotry, or discrimination against any person or group of persons on the basis of any category protected by Section 220.
(III) Not teach or promote religious doctrine.
(vi) It is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies, including charter schools, consider that, pursuant to Section 51226.7, the Instructional Quality Commission undertook a lengthy, thorough, deliberative, and inclusive process before submitting a model curriculum in ethnic studies to the state board. To the extent that local educational agencies, including charter schools, choose to locally develop an ethnic studies program for approval by their governing board or governing body, it is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies not use the portions of the draft model curriculum that were not adopted by the Instructional Quality Commission due to concerns related to bias, bigotry, and discrimination.
(vii) The amendments made to this section by Section 1 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall not be construed to alter any other requirement of this section for pupils enrolled in a charter school.
(H) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that shall not be combined with any other course.
(ii) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, a pupil who completes a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course, may elect to be exempt from the requirement to complete a one-semester course in economics pursuant to subparagraph (D).
(iii) (I) A local educational agency may elect to eliminate one or more locally required courses established pursuant to paragraph (2) in order to accommodate the requirement that pupils, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, complete a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance.
(II) This clause does not constitute a change in, but is declaratory of, existing law.
(iv) Commencing with the 202728 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer in all of its high schools at least a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course.
(v) To satisfy the requirement of this subparagraph, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance shall include information for pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, on all of, and only, the topics listed in paragraphs (1) to (13), inclusive, of subdivision (a) of Section 51284.5.
(2) (A) Other coursework requirements adopted by the governing board of the school district.
(B) The governing board of a school district may, at its discretion, adopt a policy to exempt pupils from any coursework requirements adopted pursuant to subparagraph (A). It is the intent of the Legislature that the policy include a consultation with the pupil and the educational rights holder for the pupil regarding any impact of not fulfilling locally required coursework on the pupils ability to gain admission to an institution of higher education.
(C) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1), a school district, county office of education, or charter school may, pursuant to a formal action of the governing board or body of the school district, county office of education, or charter school at a publicly noticed meeting, instead require only a one-semester course in American government and civics.
(D) This paragraph does not affect a pupils rights pursuant to Section 51225.1 or 51225.31.
(b) The governing board, with the active involvement of parents, administrators, teachers, and pupils, shall adopt alternative means for pupils to complete the prescribed course of study that may include practical demonstration of skills and competencies, supervised work experience or other outside school experience, career technical education classes offered in high schools, courses offered by regional occupational centers or programs, interdisciplinary study, independent study, and credit earned at a postsecondary educational institution. Requirements for graduation and specified alternative modes for completing the prescribed course of study shall be made available to pupils, parents, and the public.
(c) On or before July 1, 2017, the department shall submit a comprehensive report to the appropriate policy committees of the Legislature on the addition of career technical education courses to satisfy the requirement specified in subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), including, but not limited to, the following information:
(1) A comparison of the pupil enrollment in career technical education courses, world language courses, and visual and performing arts courses for the 200506 to 201112 school years, inclusive, to the pupil enrollment in career technical education courses, world language courses, and visual and performing arts courses for the 201213 to 201617 school years, inclusive.
(2) The reasons, reported by school districts, that pupils give for choosing to enroll in a career technical education course to satisfy the requirement specified in subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a).
(3) The type and number of career technical education courses that were conducted for the 200506 to 201112 school years, inclusive, compared to the type and number of career technical education courses that were conducted for the 201213 to 201617 school years, inclusive.
(4) The number of career technical education courses that satisfied the subject matter requirements for admission to the University of California or the California State University.
(5) The extent to which the career technical education courses chosen by pupils are aligned with the California Career Technical Education Model Curriculum Standards, and prepare pupils for employment, advanced training, and postsecondary education.
(6) The number of career technical education courses that also satisfy the visual and performing arts requirement, and the number of career technical education courses that also satisfy the world language requirement.
(7) Annual pupil dropout and graduation rates for the 201112 to 201415 school years, inclusive.
(d) For purposes of completing the report described in subdivision (c), the Superintendent may use existing state resources and federal funds. If state or federal funds are not available or sufficient, the Superintendent may apply for and accept grants, and receive donations and other financial support from public or private sources for purposes of this section.
(e) For purposes of completing the report described in subdivision (c), the Superintendent may accept support, including, but not limited to, financial and technical support, from high school reform advocates, teachers, chamber organizations, industry representatives, research centers, parents, and pupils.
(f) The amendments made to this section by Section 1 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall become operative only upon an appropriation of funds by the Legislature for purposes of these amendments in the annual Budget Act or another statute.
(g) This section shall become inoperative on the earlier of the following two dates:
(1) On July 1, immediately following the first fiscal year after the enactment of Chapter 621 of the Statutes of 2011 in which the number of career technical education courses that, as determined by the department, satisfy the world language requirement for admission to the California State University and the University of California is at least twice the number of career technical education courses that meet these admission requirements as of January 1, 2012. This section shall be repealed on the following January 1, unless a later enacted statute, that becomes operative on or before that date, deletes or extends the dates on which it becomes inoperative and is repealed. It is the intent of the Legislature that new career technical education courses that satisfy the world language requirement for admission to the California State University and the University of California focus on world languages aligned with career preparation, emphasizing real-world application and technical content in related career and technical education courses.
(2) On July 1, 2027, and, as of January 1, 2028, is repealed.
SEC. 2. Section 51225.3 of the Education Code, as amended by Section 2 of Chapter 560 of the Statutes of 2024, is amended to read:51225.3. (a) A pupil shall complete all of the following while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school:(1) At least the following numbers of courses in the subjects specified, each course having a duration of one year, unless otherwise specified:(A) Three courses in English.(B) Two courses in mathematics. If the governing board of a school district requires more than two courses in mathematics for graduation, the governing board of the school district may award a pupil up to one mathematics course credit pursuant to Section 51225.35.(C) Two courses in science, including biological and physical sciences.(D) (i) Three courses in social studies, including United States history and geography; world history, culture, and geography; a one-semester course in American government and civics; and a one-semester course in economics.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, including pupils enrolled in a county office of education or charter school, the course in American government and civics shall be a one-year course, except as provided in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (2).(E) One course in visual or performing arts or world language. For purposes of satisfying the requirement specified in this subparagraph, a course in American Sign Language shall be deemed a course in world language.(F) Two courses in physical education, unless the pupil has been exempted pursuant to this code.(G) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 202930 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a one-semester course in ethnic studies. A local educational agency, including a charter school, may require a full-year course in ethnic studies at its discretion. Commencing with the 202526 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer at least a one-semester course in ethnic studies.(ii) Subject to the course offerings of a local educational agency, including a charter school, a pupil may fulfill the requirement of clause (i) through the completion of any of the following types of courses:(I) A course based on the model curriculum developed pursuant to Section 51226.7.(II) An existing ethnic studies course.(III) An ethnic studies course taught as part of a course that has been approved as meeting the AG requirements of the University of California and the California State University.(IV) A locally developed ethnic studies course approved by the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school. The proposed course shall first be presented at a public meeting of the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school, and shall not be approved until a subsequent public meeting of the governing board or governing body at which the public has had the opportunity to express its views on the proposed course.(iii) A course that does not use ethnic studies content as the primary content through which the subject is taught shall not be used to satisfy the requirement of clause (i).(iv) A pupil completing a course described in clause (ii) shall also accrue credit for coursework in the subject that the course is offered, including, if applicable, credit towards satisfying a course required for a diploma of graduation from high school pursuant to this section.(v) Curriculum, instruction, and instructional materials for a course described in clause (ii) shall meet all of the following requirements:(I) Be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, religions, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, and diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners.(II) Not reflect or promote, directly or indirectly, any bias, bigotry, or discrimination against any person or group of persons on the basis of any category protected by Section 220.(III) Not teach or promote religious doctrine.(vi) It is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies, including charter schools, consider that, pursuant to Section 51226.7, the Instructional Quality Commission undertook a lengthy, thorough, deliberative, and inclusive process before submitting a model curriculum in ethnic studies to the state board. To the extent that local educational agencies, including charter schools, choose to locally develop an ethnic studies program for approval by their governing board or governing body, it is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies not use the portions of the draft model curriculum that were not adopted by the Instructional Quality Commission due to concerns related to bias, bigotry, and discrimination.(vii) The amendments made to this section by Section 2 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall not be construed to alter any other requirement of this section for pupils enrolled in a charter school.(H) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that shall not be combined with any other course.(ii) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, a pupil who completes a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course, may elect to be exempt from the requirement to complete a one-semester course in economics pursuant to subparagraph (D).(iii) (I) A local educational agency may elect to eliminate one or more locally required courses established pursuant to paragraph (2) in order to accommodate the requirement that pupils, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, complete a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance.(II) This clause does not constitute a change in, but is declaratory of, existing law.(iv) Commencing with the 202728 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer in all of its high schools at least a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course.(v) To satisfy the requirement of this subparagraph, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance shall include information for pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, on all of, and only, the topics listed in paragraphs (1) to (13), inclusive, of subdivision (a) of Section 51284.5.(2) (A) Other coursework requirements adopted by the governing board of the school district.(B) The governing board of a school district may, at its discretion, adopt a policy to exempt pupils from any coursework requirements adopted pursuant to subparagraph (A). It is the intent of the Legislature that the policy include a consultation with the pupil and the educational rights holder for the pupil regarding any impact of not fulfilling locally required coursework on the pupils ability to gain admission to an institution of higher education.(C) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1), a school district, county office of education, or charter school may, pursuant to a formal action of the governing board of body of the school district, county office of education, or charter school at publicly noticed meeting, instead require only a one-semester course in American government and civics.(D) This paragraph does not affect a pupils rights pursuant to Section 51225.1 or 51225.31.(b) The governing board, with the active involvement of parents, administrators, teachers, and pupils, shall adopt alternative means for pupils to complete the prescribed course of study that may include practical demonstration of skills and competencies, supervised work experience or other outside school experience, career technical education classes offered in high schools, courses offered by regional occupational centers or programs, interdisciplinary study, independent study, and credit earned at a postsecondary educational institution. Requirements for graduation and specified alternative modes for completing the prescribed course of study shall be made available to pupils, parents, and the public.(c) If a pupil completed a career technical education course that met the requirements of subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 51225.3, as amended by Section 3 of Chapter 621 of the Statutes of 2011, before the inoperative date of that section, that course shall be deemed to fulfill the requirements of subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of this section.(d) The amendments made to this section by Section 2 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall become operative only upon an appropriation of funds by the Legislature for purposes of these amendments in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(e) This section shall become operative upon the date that Section 51225.3, as amended by Section 35 of Chapter 571 of the Statutes of 2022, becomes inoperative.
SEC. 2. Section 51225.3 of the Education Code, as amended by Section 2 of Chapter 560 of the Statutes of 2024, is amended to read:
### SEC. 2.
51225.3. (a) A pupil shall complete all of the following while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school:(1) At least the following numbers of courses in the subjects specified, each course having a duration of one year, unless otherwise specified:(A) Three courses in English.(B) Two courses in mathematics. If the governing board of a school district requires more than two courses in mathematics for graduation, the governing board of the school district may award a pupil up to one mathematics course credit pursuant to Section 51225.35.(C) Two courses in science, including biological and physical sciences.(D) (i) Three courses in social studies, including United States history and geography; world history, culture, and geography; a one-semester course in American government and civics; and a one-semester course in economics.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, including pupils enrolled in a county office of education or charter school, the course in American government and civics shall be a one-year course, except as provided in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (2).(E) One course in visual or performing arts or world language. For purposes of satisfying the requirement specified in this subparagraph, a course in American Sign Language shall be deemed a course in world language.(F) Two courses in physical education, unless the pupil has been exempted pursuant to this code.(G) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 202930 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a one-semester course in ethnic studies. A local educational agency, including a charter school, may require a full-year course in ethnic studies at its discretion. Commencing with the 202526 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer at least a one-semester course in ethnic studies.(ii) Subject to the course offerings of a local educational agency, including a charter school, a pupil may fulfill the requirement of clause (i) through the completion of any of the following types of courses:(I) A course based on the model curriculum developed pursuant to Section 51226.7.(II) An existing ethnic studies course.(III) An ethnic studies course taught as part of a course that has been approved as meeting the AG requirements of the University of California and the California State University.(IV) A locally developed ethnic studies course approved by the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school. The proposed course shall first be presented at a public meeting of the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school, and shall not be approved until a subsequent public meeting of the governing board or governing body at which the public has had the opportunity to express its views on the proposed course.(iii) A course that does not use ethnic studies content as the primary content through which the subject is taught shall not be used to satisfy the requirement of clause (i).(iv) A pupil completing a course described in clause (ii) shall also accrue credit for coursework in the subject that the course is offered, including, if applicable, credit towards satisfying a course required for a diploma of graduation from high school pursuant to this section.(v) Curriculum, instruction, and instructional materials for a course described in clause (ii) shall meet all of the following requirements:(I) Be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, religions, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, and diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners.(II) Not reflect or promote, directly or indirectly, any bias, bigotry, or discrimination against any person or group of persons on the basis of any category protected by Section 220.(III) Not teach or promote religious doctrine.(vi) It is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies, including charter schools, consider that, pursuant to Section 51226.7, the Instructional Quality Commission undertook a lengthy, thorough, deliberative, and inclusive process before submitting a model curriculum in ethnic studies to the state board. To the extent that local educational agencies, including charter schools, choose to locally develop an ethnic studies program for approval by their governing board or governing body, it is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies not use the portions of the draft model curriculum that were not adopted by the Instructional Quality Commission due to concerns related to bias, bigotry, and discrimination.(vii) The amendments made to this section by Section 2 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall not be construed to alter any other requirement of this section for pupils enrolled in a charter school.(H) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that shall not be combined with any other course.(ii) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, a pupil who completes a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course, may elect to be exempt from the requirement to complete a one-semester course in economics pursuant to subparagraph (D).(iii) (I) A local educational agency may elect to eliminate one or more locally required courses established pursuant to paragraph (2) in order to accommodate the requirement that pupils, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, complete a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance.(II) This clause does not constitute a change in, but is declaratory of, existing law.(iv) Commencing with the 202728 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer in all of its high schools at least a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course.(v) To satisfy the requirement of this subparagraph, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance shall include information for pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, on all of, and only, the topics listed in paragraphs (1) to (13), inclusive, of subdivision (a) of Section 51284.5.(2) (A) Other coursework requirements adopted by the governing board of the school district.(B) The governing board of a school district may, at its discretion, adopt a policy to exempt pupils from any coursework requirements adopted pursuant to subparagraph (A). It is the intent of the Legislature that the policy include a consultation with the pupil and the educational rights holder for the pupil regarding any impact of not fulfilling locally required coursework on the pupils ability to gain admission to an institution of higher education.(C) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1), a school district, county office of education, or charter school may, pursuant to a formal action of the governing board of body of the school district, county office of education, or charter school at publicly noticed meeting, instead require only a one-semester course in American government and civics.(D) This paragraph does not affect a pupils rights pursuant to Section 51225.1 or 51225.31.(b) The governing board, with the active involvement of parents, administrators, teachers, and pupils, shall adopt alternative means for pupils to complete the prescribed course of study that may include practical demonstration of skills and competencies, supervised work experience or other outside school experience, career technical education classes offered in high schools, courses offered by regional occupational centers or programs, interdisciplinary study, independent study, and credit earned at a postsecondary educational institution. Requirements for graduation and specified alternative modes for completing the prescribed course of study shall be made available to pupils, parents, and the public.(c) If a pupil completed a career technical education course that met the requirements of subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 51225.3, as amended by Section 3 of Chapter 621 of the Statutes of 2011, before the inoperative date of that section, that course shall be deemed to fulfill the requirements of subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of this section.(d) The amendments made to this section by Section 2 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall become operative only upon an appropriation of funds by the Legislature for purposes of these amendments in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(e) This section shall become operative upon the date that Section 51225.3, as amended by Section 35 of Chapter 571 of the Statutes of 2022, becomes inoperative.
51225.3. (a) A pupil shall complete all of the following while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school:(1) At least the following numbers of courses in the subjects specified, each course having a duration of one year, unless otherwise specified:(A) Three courses in English.(B) Two courses in mathematics. If the governing board of a school district requires more than two courses in mathematics for graduation, the governing board of the school district may award a pupil up to one mathematics course credit pursuant to Section 51225.35.(C) Two courses in science, including biological and physical sciences.(D) (i) Three courses in social studies, including United States history and geography; world history, culture, and geography; a one-semester course in American government and civics; and a one-semester course in economics.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, including pupils enrolled in a county office of education or charter school, the course in American government and civics shall be a one-year course, except as provided in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (2).(E) One course in visual or performing arts or world language. For purposes of satisfying the requirement specified in this subparagraph, a course in American Sign Language shall be deemed a course in world language.(F) Two courses in physical education, unless the pupil has been exempted pursuant to this code.(G) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 202930 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a one-semester course in ethnic studies. A local educational agency, including a charter school, may require a full-year course in ethnic studies at its discretion. Commencing with the 202526 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer at least a one-semester course in ethnic studies.(ii) Subject to the course offerings of a local educational agency, including a charter school, a pupil may fulfill the requirement of clause (i) through the completion of any of the following types of courses:(I) A course based on the model curriculum developed pursuant to Section 51226.7.(II) An existing ethnic studies course.(III) An ethnic studies course taught as part of a course that has been approved as meeting the AG requirements of the University of California and the California State University.(IV) A locally developed ethnic studies course approved by the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school. The proposed course shall first be presented at a public meeting of the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school, and shall not be approved until a subsequent public meeting of the governing board or governing body at which the public has had the opportunity to express its views on the proposed course.(iii) A course that does not use ethnic studies content as the primary content through which the subject is taught shall not be used to satisfy the requirement of clause (i).(iv) A pupil completing a course described in clause (ii) shall also accrue credit for coursework in the subject that the course is offered, including, if applicable, credit towards satisfying a course required for a diploma of graduation from high school pursuant to this section.(v) Curriculum, instruction, and instructional materials for a course described in clause (ii) shall meet all of the following requirements:(I) Be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, religions, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, and diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners.(II) Not reflect or promote, directly or indirectly, any bias, bigotry, or discrimination against any person or group of persons on the basis of any category protected by Section 220.(III) Not teach or promote religious doctrine.(vi) It is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies, including charter schools, consider that, pursuant to Section 51226.7, the Instructional Quality Commission undertook a lengthy, thorough, deliberative, and inclusive process before submitting a model curriculum in ethnic studies to the state board. To the extent that local educational agencies, including charter schools, choose to locally develop an ethnic studies program for approval by their governing board or governing body, it is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies not use the portions of the draft model curriculum that were not adopted by the Instructional Quality Commission due to concerns related to bias, bigotry, and discrimination.(vii) The amendments made to this section by Section 2 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall not be construed to alter any other requirement of this section for pupils enrolled in a charter school.(H) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that shall not be combined with any other course.(ii) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, a pupil who completes a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course, may elect to be exempt from the requirement to complete a one-semester course in economics pursuant to subparagraph (D).(iii) (I) A local educational agency may elect to eliminate one or more locally required courses established pursuant to paragraph (2) in order to accommodate the requirement that pupils, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, complete a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance.(II) This clause does not constitute a change in, but is declaratory of, existing law.(iv) Commencing with the 202728 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer in all of its high schools at least a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course.(v) To satisfy the requirement of this subparagraph, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance shall include information for pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, on all of, and only, the topics listed in paragraphs (1) to (13), inclusive, of subdivision (a) of Section 51284.5.(2) (A) Other coursework requirements adopted by the governing board of the school district.(B) The governing board of a school district may, at its discretion, adopt a policy to exempt pupils from any coursework requirements adopted pursuant to subparagraph (A). It is the intent of the Legislature that the policy include a consultation with the pupil and the educational rights holder for the pupil regarding any impact of not fulfilling locally required coursework on the pupils ability to gain admission to an institution of higher education.(C) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1), a school district, county office of education, or charter school may, pursuant to a formal action of the governing board of body of the school district, county office of education, or charter school at publicly noticed meeting, instead require only a one-semester course in American government and civics.(D) This paragraph does not affect a pupils rights pursuant to Section 51225.1 or 51225.31.(b) The governing board, with the active involvement of parents, administrators, teachers, and pupils, shall adopt alternative means for pupils to complete the prescribed course of study that may include practical demonstration of skills and competencies, supervised work experience or other outside school experience, career technical education classes offered in high schools, courses offered by regional occupational centers or programs, interdisciplinary study, independent study, and credit earned at a postsecondary educational institution. Requirements for graduation and specified alternative modes for completing the prescribed course of study shall be made available to pupils, parents, and the public.(c) If a pupil completed a career technical education course that met the requirements of subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 51225.3, as amended by Section 3 of Chapter 621 of the Statutes of 2011, before the inoperative date of that section, that course shall be deemed to fulfill the requirements of subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of this section.(d) The amendments made to this section by Section 2 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall become operative only upon an appropriation of funds by the Legislature for purposes of these amendments in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(e) This section shall become operative upon the date that Section 51225.3, as amended by Section 35 of Chapter 571 of the Statutes of 2022, becomes inoperative.
51225.3. (a) A pupil shall complete all of the following while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school:(1) At least the following numbers of courses in the subjects specified, each course having a duration of one year, unless otherwise specified:(A) Three courses in English.(B) Two courses in mathematics. If the governing board of a school district requires more than two courses in mathematics for graduation, the governing board of the school district may award a pupil up to one mathematics course credit pursuant to Section 51225.35.(C) Two courses in science, including biological and physical sciences.(D) (i) Three courses in social studies, including United States history and geography; world history, culture, and geography; a one-semester course in American government and civics; and a one-semester course in economics.(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, including pupils enrolled in a county office of education or charter school, the course in American government and civics shall be a one-year course, except as provided in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (2).(E) One course in visual or performing arts or world language. For purposes of satisfying the requirement specified in this subparagraph, a course in American Sign Language shall be deemed a course in world language.(F) Two courses in physical education, unless the pupil has been exempted pursuant to this code.(G) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 202930 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a one-semester course in ethnic studies. A local educational agency, including a charter school, may require a full-year course in ethnic studies at its discretion. Commencing with the 202526 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer at least a one-semester course in ethnic studies.(ii) Subject to the course offerings of a local educational agency, including a charter school, a pupil may fulfill the requirement of clause (i) through the completion of any of the following types of courses:(I) A course based on the model curriculum developed pursuant to Section 51226.7.(II) An existing ethnic studies course.(III) An ethnic studies course taught as part of a course that has been approved as meeting the AG requirements of the University of California and the California State University.(IV) A locally developed ethnic studies course approved by the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school. The proposed course shall first be presented at a public meeting of the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school, and shall not be approved until a subsequent public meeting of the governing board or governing body at which the public has had the opportunity to express its views on the proposed course.(iii) A course that does not use ethnic studies content as the primary content through which the subject is taught shall not be used to satisfy the requirement of clause (i).(iv) A pupil completing a course described in clause (ii) shall also accrue credit for coursework in the subject that the course is offered, including, if applicable, credit towards satisfying a course required for a diploma of graduation from high school pursuant to this section.(v) Curriculum, instruction, and instructional materials for a course described in clause (ii) shall meet all of the following requirements:(I) Be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, religions, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, and diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners.(II) Not reflect or promote, directly or indirectly, any bias, bigotry, or discrimination against any person or group of persons on the basis of any category protected by Section 220.(III) Not teach or promote religious doctrine.(vi) It is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies, including charter schools, consider that, pursuant to Section 51226.7, the Instructional Quality Commission undertook a lengthy, thorough, deliberative, and inclusive process before submitting a model curriculum in ethnic studies to the state board. To the extent that local educational agencies, including charter schools, choose to locally develop an ethnic studies program for approval by their governing board or governing body, it is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies not use the portions of the draft model curriculum that were not adopted by the Instructional Quality Commission due to concerns related to bias, bigotry, and discrimination.(vii) The amendments made to this section by Section 2 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall not be construed to alter any other requirement of this section for pupils enrolled in a charter school.(H) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that shall not be combined with any other course.(ii) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, a pupil who completes a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course, may elect to be exempt from the requirement to complete a one-semester course in economics pursuant to subparagraph (D).(iii) (I) A local educational agency may elect to eliminate one or more locally required courses established pursuant to paragraph (2) in order to accommodate the requirement that pupils, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, complete a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance.(II) This clause does not constitute a change in, but is declaratory of, existing law.(iv) Commencing with the 202728 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer in all of its high schools at least a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course.(v) To satisfy the requirement of this subparagraph, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance shall include information for pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, on all of, and only, the topics listed in paragraphs (1) to (13), inclusive, of subdivision (a) of Section 51284.5.(2) (A) Other coursework requirements adopted by the governing board of the school district.(B) The governing board of a school district may, at its discretion, adopt a policy to exempt pupils from any coursework requirements adopted pursuant to subparagraph (A). It is the intent of the Legislature that the policy include a consultation with the pupil and the educational rights holder for the pupil regarding any impact of not fulfilling locally required coursework on the pupils ability to gain admission to an institution of higher education.(C) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1), a school district, county office of education, or charter school may, pursuant to a formal action of the governing board of body of the school district, county office of education, or charter school at publicly noticed meeting, instead require only a one-semester course in American government and civics.(D) This paragraph does not affect a pupils rights pursuant to Section 51225.1 or 51225.31.(b) The governing board, with the active involvement of parents, administrators, teachers, and pupils, shall adopt alternative means for pupils to complete the prescribed course of study that may include practical demonstration of skills and competencies, supervised work experience or other outside school experience, career technical education classes offered in high schools, courses offered by regional occupational centers or programs, interdisciplinary study, independent study, and credit earned at a postsecondary educational institution. Requirements for graduation and specified alternative modes for completing the prescribed course of study shall be made available to pupils, parents, and the public.(c) If a pupil completed a career technical education course that met the requirements of subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 51225.3, as amended by Section 3 of Chapter 621 of the Statutes of 2011, before the inoperative date of that section, that course shall be deemed to fulfill the requirements of subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of this section.(d) The amendments made to this section by Section 2 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall become operative only upon an appropriation of funds by the Legislature for purposes of these amendments in the annual Budget Act or another statute.(e) This section shall become operative upon the date that Section 51225.3, as amended by Section 35 of Chapter 571 of the Statutes of 2022, becomes inoperative.
51225.3. (a) A pupil shall complete all of the following while in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, in order to receive a diploma of graduation from high school:
(1) At least the following numbers of courses in the subjects specified, each course having a duration of one year, unless otherwise specified:
(A) Three courses in English.
(B) Two courses in mathematics. If the governing board of a school district requires more than two courses in mathematics for graduation, the governing board of the school district may award a pupil up to one mathematics course credit pursuant to Section 51225.35.
(C) Two courses in science, including biological and physical sciences.
(D) (i) Three courses in social studies, including United States history and geography; world history, culture, and geography; a one-semester course in American government and civics; and a one-semester course in economics.
(ii) Notwithstanding clause (i), commencing with pupils graduating in the 203233 school year, including pupils enrolled in a county office of education or charter school, the course in American government and civics shall be a one-year course, except as provided in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (2).
(E) One course in visual or performing arts or world language. For purposes of satisfying the requirement specified in this subparagraph, a course in American Sign Language shall be deemed a course in world language.
(F) Two courses in physical education, unless the pupil has been exempted pursuant to this code.
(G) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 202930 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a one-semester course in ethnic studies. A local educational agency, including a charter school, may require a full-year course in ethnic studies at its discretion. Commencing with the 202526 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer at least a one-semester course in ethnic studies.
(ii) Subject to the course offerings of a local educational agency, including a charter school, a pupil may fulfill the requirement of clause (i) through the completion of any of the following types of courses:
(I) A course based on the model curriculum developed pursuant to Section 51226.7.
(II) An existing ethnic studies course.
(III) An ethnic studies course taught as part of a course that has been approved as meeting the AG requirements of the University of California and the California State University.
(IV) A locally developed ethnic studies course approved by the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school. The proposed course shall first be presented at a public meeting of the governing board of the school district or the governing body of the charter school, and shall not be approved until a subsequent public meeting of the governing board or governing body at which the public has had the opportunity to express its views on the proposed course.
(iii) A course that does not use ethnic studies content as the primary content through which the subject is taught shall not be used to satisfy the requirement of clause (i).
(iv) A pupil completing a course described in clause (ii) shall also accrue credit for coursework in the subject that the course is offered, including, if applicable, credit towards satisfying a course required for a diploma of graduation from high school pursuant to this section.
(v) Curriculum, instruction, and instructional materials for a course described in clause (ii) shall meet all of the following requirements:
(I) Be appropriate for use with pupils of all races, religions, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, and diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, pupils with disabilities, and English learners.
(II) Not reflect or promote, directly or indirectly, any bias, bigotry, or discrimination against any person or group of persons on the basis of any category protected by Section 220.
(III) Not teach or promote religious doctrine.
(vi) It is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies, including charter schools, consider that, pursuant to Section 51226.7, the Instructional Quality Commission undertook a lengthy, thorough, deliberative, and inclusive process before submitting a model curriculum in ethnic studies to the state board. To the extent that local educational agencies, including charter schools, choose to locally develop an ethnic studies program for approval by their governing board or governing body, it is the intent of the Legislature that local educational agencies not use the portions of the draft model curriculum that were not adopted by the Instructional Quality Commission due to concerns related to bias, bigotry, and discrimination.
(vii) The amendments made to this section by Section 2 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall not be construed to alter any other requirement of this section for pupils enrolled in a charter school.
(H) (i) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, including for pupils enrolled in a charter school, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that shall not be combined with any other course.
(ii) Commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, a pupil who completes a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course, may elect to be exempt from the requirement to complete a one-semester course in economics pursuant to subparagraph (D).
(iii) (I) A local educational agency may elect to eliminate one or more locally required courses established pursuant to paragraph (2) in order to accommodate the requirement that pupils, commencing with pupils graduating in the 203031 school year, complete a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance.
(II) This clause does not constitute a change in, but is declaratory of, existing law.
(iv) Commencing with the 202728 school year, a local educational agency, including a charter school, with pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, shall offer in all of its high schools at least a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance, that is not combined with any other course.
(v) To satisfy the requirement of this subparagraph, a separate, stand-alone one-semester course in personal finance shall include information for pupils in grades 9 to 12, inclusive, on all of, and only, the topics listed in paragraphs (1) to (13), inclusive, of subdivision (a) of Section 51284.5.
(2) (A) Other coursework requirements adopted by the governing board of the school district.
(B) The governing board of a school district may, at its discretion, adopt a policy to exempt pupils from any coursework requirements adopted pursuant to subparagraph (A). It is the intent of the Legislature that the policy include a consultation with the pupil and the educational rights holder for the pupil regarding any impact of not fulfilling locally required coursework on the pupils ability to gain admission to an institution of higher education.
(C) Notwithstanding clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1), a school district, county office of education, or charter school may, pursuant to a formal action of the governing board of body of the school district, county office of education, or charter school at publicly noticed meeting, instead require only a one-semester course in American government and civics.
(D) This paragraph does not affect a pupils rights pursuant to Section 51225.1 or 51225.31.
(b) The governing board, with the active involvement of parents, administrators, teachers, and pupils, shall adopt alternative means for pupils to complete the prescribed course of study that may include practical demonstration of skills and competencies, supervised work experience or other outside school experience, career technical education classes offered in high schools, courses offered by regional occupational centers or programs, interdisciplinary study, independent study, and credit earned at a postsecondary educational institution. Requirements for graduation and specified alternative modes for completing the prescribed course of study shall be made available to pupils, parents, and the public.
(c) If a pupil completed a career technical education course that met the requirements of subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 51225.3, as amended by Section 3 of Chapter 621 of the Statutes of 2011, before the inoperative date of that section, that course shall be deemed to fulfill the requirements of subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of this section.
(d) The amendments made to this section by Section 2 of Chapter 661 of the Statutes of 2021 shall become operative only upon an appropriation of funds by the Legislature for purposes of these amendments in the annual Budget Act or another statute.
(e) This section shall become operative upon the date that Section 51225.3, as amended by Section 35 of Chapter 571 of the Statutes of 2022, becomes inoperative.
SEC. 3. Section 51225.34 is added to the Education Code, to read:51225.34. (a) The Instructional Quality Commission shall develop and recommend to the state board, for consideration and adoption by the state board, a curriculum guide and recommended resources department shall, in collaboration with, and subject to the approval of, the executive director of the state board, enter into a contract with a county office of education or a consortium of county offices of education for the purpose of developing a model curriculum for the one-year course in American government and civics required pursuant to clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 51225.3. The state board shall adopt the curriculum guide and recommended resources on or before July 1, 2028.(b) The curriculum guide required model curriculum developed pursuant to subdivision (a) shall include, but is not limited to, all of the following:(1) Fundamentals on the responsibilities of federal departments and agencies.(2) Fundamentals on California state government institutions, including the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, along with state agencies and departments.(3) Fundamentals on local government institutions, including city councils, county boards of supervisors, and other local bodies.(4) Fundamentals on special districts in California, including their purpose and membership.(5) Fundamentals on Tribal governments in California, including their purpose and membership.(6) Fundamentals on direct democracy in California, including ballot initiatives, referenda, and the recall process.(7) How to participate in the decisionmaking of federal, state, local, and special district institutions, including, but not limited to, how to contact representatives, how to attend state and local public meetings, and understanding pathways of influence.(8) The role of advocacy and interest groups in government decisionmaking.(9) All of the following relating to voting:(A) Eligibility for, and requirements relating to, registering to vote.(B) The various methods for registering to vote, including the ability to preregister to vote.(C) Acquiring official, nonpartisan election and voter information from county and state elections officials, including, but not limited to, accessing county and state elections internet websites.(D) Understanding the electoral systems used at the federal, state, and local level.(E) How to complete and submit a ballot through various methods, including vote by mail and in person at a polling place or vote center.(F) An individuals rights as a voter.(10) Tools for constructive political dialogue, including methods and techniques such as Socratic seminars and structured classroom debates, to teach pupils how to engage in respectful disagreements.(c) This section shall be implemented only upon appropriation by the Legislature for its purposes in the annual Budget Act or another statute.
SEC. 3. Section 51225.34 is added to the Education Code, to read:
### SEC. 3.
51225.34. (a) The Instructional Quality Commission shall develop and recommend to the state board, for consideration and adoption by the state board, a curriculum guide and recommended resources department shall, in collaboration with, and subject to the approval of, the executive director of the state board, enter into a contract with a county office of education or a consortium of county offices of education for the purpose of developing a model curriculum for the one-year course in American government and civics required pursuant to clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 51225.3. The state board shall adopt the curriculum guide and recommended resources on or before July 1, 2028.(b) The curriculum guide required model curriculum developed pursuant to subdivision (a) shall include, but is not limited to, all of the following:(1) Fundamentals on the responsibilities of federal departments and agencies.(2) Fundamentals on California state government institutions, including the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, along with state agencies and departments.(3) Fundamentals on local government institutions, including city councils, county boards of supervisors, and other local bodies.(4) Fundamentals on special districts in California, including their purpose and membership.(5) Fundamentals on Tribal governments in California, including their purpose and membership.(6) Fundamentals on direct democracy in California, including ballot initiatives, referenda, and the recall process.(7) How to participate in the decisionmaking of federal, state, local, and special district institutions, including, but not limited to, how to contact representatives, how to attend state and local public meetings, and understanding pathways of influence.(8) The role of advocacy and interest groups in government decisionmaking.(9) All of the following relating to voting:(A) Eligibility for, and requirements relating to, registering to vote.(B) The various methods for registering to vote, including the ability to preregister to vote.(C) Acquiring official, nonpartisan election and voter information from county and state elections officials, including, but not limited to, accessing county and state elections internet websites.(D) Understanding the electoral systems used at the federal, state, and local level.(E) How to complete and submit a ballot through various methods, including vote by mail and in person at a polling place or vote center.(F) An individuals rights as a voter.(10) Tools for constructive political dialogue, including methods and techniques such as Socratic seminars and structured classroom debates, to teach pupils how to engage in respectful disagreements.(c) This section shall be implemented only upon appropriation by the Legislature for its purposes in the annual Budget Act or another statute.
51225.34. (a) The Instructional Quality Commission shall develop and recommend to the state board, for consideration and adoption by the state board, a curriculum guide and recommended resources department shall, in collaboration with, and subject to the approval of, the executive director of the state board, enter into a contract with a county office of education or a consortium of county offices of education for the purpose of developing a model curriculum for the one-year course in American government and civics required pursuant to clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 51225.3. The state board shall adopt the curriculum guide and recommended resources on or before July 1, 2028.(b) The curriculum guide required model curriculum developed pursuant to subdivision (a) shall include, but is not limited to, all of the following:(1) Fundamentals on the responsibilities of federal departments and agencies.(2) Fundamentals on California state government institutions, including the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, along with state agencies and departments.(3) Fundamentals on local government institutions, including city councils, county boards of supervisors, and other local bodies.(4) Fundamentals on special districts in California, including their purpose and membership.(5) Fundamentals on Tribal governments in California, including their purpose and membership.(6) Fundamentals on direct democracy in California, including ballot initiatives, referenda, and the recall process.(7) How to participate in the decisionmaking of federal, state, local, and special district institutions, including, but not limited to, how to contact representatives, how to attend state and local public meetings, and understanding pathways of influence.(8) The role of advocacy and interest groups in government decisionmaking.(9) All of the following relating to voting:(A) Eligibility for, and requirements relating to, registering to vote.(B) The various methods for registering to vote, including the ability to preregister to vote.(C) Acquiring official, nonpartisan election and voter information from county and state elections officials, including, but not limited to, accessing county and state elections internet websites.(D) Understanding the electoral systems used at the federal, state, and local level.(E) How to complete and submit a ballot through various methods, including vote by mail and in person at a polling place or vote center.(F) An individuals rights as a voter.(10) Tools for constructive political dialogue, including methods and techniques such as Socratic seminars and structured classroom debates, to teach pupils how to engage in respectful disagreements.(c) This section shall be implemented only upon appropriation by the Legislature for its purposes in the annual Budget Act or another statute.
51225.34. (a) The Instructional Quality Commission shall develop and recommend to the state board, for consideration and adoption by the state board, a curriculum guide and recommended resources department shall, in collaboration with, and subject to the approval of, the executive director of the state board, enter into a contract with a county office of education or a consortium of county offices of education for the purpose of developing a model curriculum for the one-year course in American government and civics required pursuant to clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 51225.3. The state board shall adopt the curriculum guide and recommended resources on or before July 1, 2028.(b) The curriculum guide required model curriculum developed pursuant to subdivision (a) shall include, but is not limited to, all of the following:(1) Fundamentals on the responsibilities of federal departments and agencies.(2) Fundamentals on California state government institutions, including the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, along with state agencies and departments.(3) Fundamentals on local government institutions, including city councils, county boards of supervisors, and other local bodies.(4) Fundamentals on special districts in California, including their purpose and membership.(5) Fundamentals on Tribal governments in California, including their purpose and membership.(6) Fundamentals on direct democracy in California, including ballot initiatives, referenda, and the recall process.(7) How to participate in the decisionmaking of federal, state, local, and special district institutions, including, but not limited to, how to contact representatives, how to attend state and local public meetings, and understanding pathways of influence.(8) The role of advocacy and interest groups in government decisionmaking.(9) All of the following relating to voting:(A) Eligibility for, and requirements relating to, registering to vote.(B) The various methods for registering to vote, including the ability to preregister to vote.(C) Acquiring official, nonpartisan election and voter information from county and state elections officials, including, but not limited to, accessing county and state elections internet websites.(D) Understanding the electoral systems used at the federal, state, and local level.(E) How to complete and submit a ballot through various methods, including vote by mail and in person at a polling place or vote center.(F) An individuals rights as a voter.(10) Tools for constructive political dialogue, including methods and techniques such as Socratic seminars and structured classroom debates, to teach pupils how to engage in respectful disagreements.(c) This section shall be implemented only upon appropriation by the Legislature for its purposes in the annual Budget Act or another statute.
51225.34. (a) The Instructional Quality Commission shall develop and recommend to the state board, for consideration and adoption by the state board, a curriculum guide and recommended resources department shall, in collaboration with, and subject to the approval of, the executive director of the state board, enter into a contract with a county office of education or a consortium of county offices of education for the purpose of developing a model curriculum for the one-year course in American government and civics required pursuant to clause (ii) of subparagraph (D) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 51225.3. The state board shall adopt the curriculum guide and recommended resources on or before July 1, 2028.
(b) The curriculum guide required model curriculum developed pursuant to subdivision (a) shall include, but is not limited to, all of the following:
(1) Fundamentals on the responsibilities of federal departments and agencies.
(2) Fundamentals on California state government institutions, including the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, along with state agencies and departments.
(3) Fundamentals on local government institutions, including city councils, county boards of supervisors, and other local bodies.
(4) Fundamentals on special districts in California, including their purpose and membership.
(5) Fundamentals on Tribal governments in California, including their purpose and membership.
(6) Fundamentals on direct democracy in California, including ballot initiatives, referenda, and the recall process.
(7) How to participate in the decisionmaking of federal, state, local, and special district institutions, including, but not limited to, how to contact representatives, how to attend state and local public meetings, and understanding pathways of influence.
(8) The role of advocacy and interest groups in government decisionmaking.
(9) All of the following relating to voting:
(A) Eligibility for, and requirements relating to, registering to vote.
(B) The various methods for registering to vote, including the ability to preregister to vote.
(C) Acquiring official, nonpartisan election and voter information from county and state elections officials, including, but not limited to, accessing county and state elections internet websites.
(D) Understanding the electoral systems used at the federal, state, and local level.
(E) How to complete and submit a ballot through various methods, including vote by mail and in person at a polling place or vote center.
(F) An individuals rights as a voter.
(10) Tools for constructive political dialogue, including methods and techniques such as Socratic seminars and structured classroom debates, to teach pupils how to engage in respectful disagreements.
(c) This section shall be implemented only upon appropriation by the Legislature for its purposes in the annual Budget Act or another statute.
SEC. 4. Section 51473 of the Education Code is amended to read:51473. A school district that participates in the program under this article shall do all of the following:(a) Deem a pupils successful completion of a one-year course in American government and civics as satisfying the criteria adopted by the state board that a pupil demonstrates a competent understanding of United States and California constitutions; functions and governance of local governments; tribal government structures and organizations; the role of the citizen in a constitutional democracy; and democratic principles, concepts, and processes. A pupil who successfully completes a one-year course in American government and civics shall still be required to satisfy all other criteria adopted by the state board in order to receive the State Seal of Civic Engagement.(b) Maintain appropriate records in order to identify pupils who have earned a State Seal of Civic Engagement.(c) Affix the appropriate insignia to the diploma or transcript of each pupil who earns a State Seal of Civic Engagement.
SEC. 4. Section 51473 of the Education Code is amended to read:
### SEC. 4.
51473. A school district that participates in the program under this article shall do all of the following:(a) Deem a pupils successful completion of a one-year course in American government and civics as satisfying the criteria adopted by the state board that a pupil demonstrates a competent understanding of United States and California constitutions; functions and governance of local governments; tribal government structures and organizations; the role of the citizen in a constitutional democracy; and democratic principles, concepts, and processes. A pupil who successfully completes a one-year course in American government and civics shall still be required to satisfy all other criteria adopted by the state board in order to receive the State Seal of Civic Engagement.(b) Maintain appropriate records in order to identify pupils who have earned a State Seal of Civic Engagement.(c) Affix the appropriate insignia to the diploma or transcript of each pupil who earns a State Seal of Civic Engagement.
51473. A school district that participates in the program under this article shall do all of the following:(a) Deem a pupils successful completion of a one-year course in American government and civics as satisfying the criteria adopted by the state board that a pupil demonstrates a competent understanding of United States and California constitutions; functions and governance of local governments; tribal government structures and organizations; the role of the citizen in a constitutional democracy; and democratic principles, concepts, and processes. A pupil who successfully completes a one-year course in American government and civics shall still be required to satisfy all other criteria adopted by the state board in order to receive the State Seal of Civic Engagement.(b) Maintain appropriate records in order to identify pupils who have earned a State Seal of Civic Engagement.(c) Affix the appropriate insignia to the diploma or transcript of each pupil who earns a State Seal of Civic Engagement.
51473. A school district that participates in the program under this article shall do all of the following:(a) Deem a pupils successful completion of a one-year course in American government and civics as satisfying the criteria adopted by the state board that a pupil demonstrates a competent understanding of United States and California constitutions; functions and governance of local governments; tribal government structures and organizations; the role of the citizen in a constitutional democracy; and democratic principles, concepts, and processes. A pupil who successfully completes a one-year course in American government and civics shall still be required to satisfy all other criteria adopted by the state board in order to receive the State Seal of Civic Engagement.(b) Maintain appropriate records in order to identify pupils who have earned a State Seal of Civic Engagement.(c) Affix the appropriate insignia to the diploma or transcript of each pupil who earns a State Seal of Civic Engagement.
51473. A school district that participates in the program under this article shall do all of the following:
(a) Deem a pupils successful completion of a one-year course in American government and civics as satisfying the criteria adopted by the state board that a pupil demonstrates a competent understanding of United States and California constitutions; functions and governance of local governments; tribal government structures and organizations; the role of the citizen in a constitutional democracy; and democratic principles, concepts, and processes. A pupil who successfully completes a one-year course in American government and civics shall still be required to satisfy all other criteria adopted by the state board in order to receive the State Seal of Civic Engagement.
(b) Maintain appropriate records in order to identify pupils who have earned a State Seal of Civic Engagement.
(c) Affix the appropriate insignia to the diploma or transcript of each pupil who earns a State Seal of Civic Engagement.
SEC. 5. If the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to Part 7 (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Government Code.
SEC. 5. If the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to Part 7 (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Government Code.
SEC. 5. If the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to Part 7 (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Government Code.
### SEC. 5.