Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB778

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/8/23
• Refer: 12/8/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Requiring the display of the national motto in public schools. (FE)

Impact

This bill modifies existing laws related to educational settings and the symbols displayed in public schools. Currently, schools are required to display the U.S. flag and offer the pledge of allegiance or national anthem but are not mandated to display the national motto. The introduction of this requirement could potentially standardize patriotic displays across classrooms and reinforce themes of national identity among students, as schools respond to state-level mandates.

Summary

Assembly Bill 778 mandates that beginning in the 2024-25 school year, each public school classroom in the state must display the national motto, 'In God We Trust.' This requirement extends to charter schools, and it outlines specifics on how the motto should be displayed. The display must be at least 11 inches by 14 inches and can be presented in various formats such as a poster, framed document, or inscribed on a wall, ensuring the motto is in English and legibly printed.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding AB778 may arise from differing opinions on the separation of church and state, as the national motto has religious undertones. Critics may argue that mandating such displays in classrooms risks infringing on individual freedoms and could alienate students and families of diverse beliefs. Proponents may contend that this legislation promotes a shared national identity and values within the educational environment.