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Civics course for high school graduation?

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Next Thursday, February 23 the New Hampshire Senate will vote on a bill that would require a civics course for high school graduation. 

The Senate Education committee voted unanimously in favor of the bill, SB 45.

Currently, all public and private schools in New Hampshire require regular courses of instruction in the history, government and constitutions of the United States and New Hampshire. Such courses must begin by 8th grade and continue through high school.

If passed, SB 45 would require a civics course in high school that would cover the following areas of instruction:

  • Duties and responsibilities of a citizen.
  • Opportunities for citizen participation and involvement in the governmental process.
  • The structure and operation of state and federal government.
  • The constitutional basis of state and federal government.
  • The interaction between local, state, and federal governments.
  • Exposure to current governmental affairs.

Similar legislation has been passed across the nation, including in Chicago school districts in 2015.

Bill supporters argue that civics education is essential to make sure that future generations participate responsibly in our democracy.  However, many schools are spending less time on civics education to meet other curriculum needs.

Bill opponents note that just last year the state passed a law requiring high schoolers to take a civics test.  They argue it should be up to local school districts to set curriculum, and the testing requirement is enough to ensure students are educated in civics.

Should NH require a course in civics for high school graduation? Leave a comment to join the discussion. 

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