Texas House Bill HB1139

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to inclusion of a civics test in the graduation requirements for public high school students.

Impact

The inclusion of a civics test could significantly impact state education laws by establishing a new condition for high school graduation. This amendment to the Education Code emphasizes the importance of civic education and aligns with efforts to foster greater civic responsibility among the youth. The bill proposes that beginning with students entering ninth grade in the 2015-2016 school year, they will be subjected to this requirement, thus shaping the educational landscape toward a more civically astute populace.

Summary

House Bill 1139 aims to include a civics test as a requirement for public high school students to receive their diplomas in Texas. The bill stipulates that students must pass the civics test, which is based on questions from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services' naturalization process, before they can graduate. This addition is intended to enhance civic knowledge among students and prepare them for engaging in democratic processes as informed citizens.

Contention

While proponents of HB1139 argue that it will lead to more informed citizens and encourage civic engagement, there are potential points of contention. Critics may view this requirement as an additional barrier to graduation, particularly for students who may struggle with standardized testing. There are concerns regarding the adequacy of resources to prepare all students effectively, which could exacerbate educational inequalities. Discussions around the bill may revolve around finding a balance between the importance of civic knowledge and ensuring accessible education for all students.