Civics Learning Act of 2023
3/6/2024, 8:15 AMSummary of Bill HR 1387
Bill 118 HR 1387, also known as the Civics Learning Act of 2023, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress with the aim of promoting civic education in schools. The bill seeks to enhance students' understanding of the democratic process and their role as active and engaged citizens in society.The Civics Learning Act of 2023 proposes several key provisions to achieve its goals. Firstly, it calls for the development of comprehensive civics education programs in schools, including curriculum that covers topics such as the Constitution, the branches of government, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens. These programs would be designed to be age-appropriate and culturally relevant to ensure that all students have access to high-quality civic education.
Additionally, the bill allocates funding for professional development opportunities for teachers to enhance their knowledge and skills in teaching civics. This would help ensure that educators are equipped to effectively teach civics education in the classroom. Furthermore, the Civics Learning Act of 2023 includes provisions for the evaluation of civics education programs to measure their effectiveness and impact on students' civic knowledge and engagement. This data would be used to inform future improvements and adjustments to the programs. Overall, Bill 118 HR 1387, the Civics Learning Act of 2023, aims to strengthen civic education in schools and empower students to become informed and active participants in their communities and in the democratic process.
Congressional Summary of HR 1387
Civics Learning Act of 2023
This bill expands the use of American History and Civics Education—National Activities grants to prioritize innovative civics learning and teaching.
Specifically, the bill expands the allowable uses of these grants to include activities related to women's suffrage and the civil rights movement; before-, during-, and after-school activities and extracurricular activities; activities that include service learning and community service projects that are linked to school curriculum; activities that encourage and support student participation in school governance; and online and video game-based learning.
Further, the Department of Education must ensure that specified percentages of grant funds are awarded on a diverse basis to eligible entities (e.g., institutions of higher education) that serve students and teachers at elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.
