Required instruction in civics in the elementary and high school grades, high school graduation requirements, and private school educational program criteria. (FE)
Impact
The bill fundamentally alters the educational requirements for high school students by incorporating a civics education component into the existing social studies credit requirements. Specifically, it mandates that students must earn at least 0.5 credits of civics instruction as part of the three social studies credits necessary for graduation. This requirement will first be applicable to students graduating in the 2030-31 school year, aligning civics education with broader societal expectations for informed citizenship.
Summary
Assembly Bill 4 (AB4) proposes to mandate civics instruction in the curricula of school boards, independent charter schools, and private schools involved in parental choice programs starting in the 2027-28 school year. The bill outlines specific topics intended to be covered in civics education, such as students' rights and responsibilities as residents, principles of governing, civic engagement, and knowledge of global governing philosophies. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of understanding the U.S. Constitution and the responsibilities that accompany citizenship.
Contention
While advocates argue that the bill serves to enhance civic knowledge and engagement among students, critics may raise concerns regarding the potential politicization of curriculum content. The inclusion of specific governing philosophies alongside the American political framework prompts discussions about educational bias and the democratic principles being taught. Some factions may see this as an overreach into the autonomy of educational institutions, fearing that mandatory content could dilute the educational appropriateness and freedom of curriculum choices.
Required instruction in civics in the elementary and high school grades, high school graduation requirements, and private school educational program criteria. (FE)
Required instruction in civics in the elementary and high school grades, high school graduation requirements, and private school educational program criteria. (FE)
Reading instruction in public schools and private schools participating in parental choice programs, an early literacy assessment and intervention program, providing an exemption from rule-making procedures, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)
Reading instruction in public schools and private schools participating in parental choice programs, an early literacy assessment and intervention program, providing an exemption from rule-making procedures, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)
Requiring public schools and private schools participating in a parental choice program to employ a full-time librarian and a school district revenue limit adjustment for the cost of employing full-time librarians. (FE)
Requiring public schools and private schools participating in a parental choice program to employ a full-time librarian and a school district revenue limit adjustment for the cost of employing full-time librarians. (FE)
Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools.
Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools.
Relating to the instructional materials and technology allotment, open education resource instructional materials, and the State Board of Education long-range technology plan.
Relating to the instructional materials and technology allotment, open education resource instructional materials, and the State Board of Education long-range technology plan.
Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools; providing penalties.