Bill > H3547

This bill mandates that all middle school students in South Carolina complete one unit of comprehensive civics education starting in the 2027-2028 school year, with both instructional and experiential components. The instructional component will focus on teaching students fundamental knowledge about democracy, government, and citizenship, including basic history, economics, and political science concepts, while developing critical thinking and communication skills. Students will be required to complete a student-led, nonpartisan civics project designed to help them analyze complex issues, consider different perspectives, construct logical arguments, and understand connections between federal, state, and local policies. The bill establishes the Palmetto Middle School Civics Challenge, which will provide a platform for students to showcase their civics projects and demonstrate their understanding of civic engagement and community service. The State Board of Education must develop and adopt a statewide curriculum for this civics coursework before the 2027-2028 school year, with an emphasis on interactive learning tools like the American Democracy Game. Students who do not wish to participate in group projects will be offered an opportunity to develop individual projects with teacher or principal approval. The bill aims to cultivate informed, engaged citizens by teaching both the intellectual skills and character traits necessary for effective democratic participation.

Education

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3547&session=126&summary=B