Bill > S06924

This bill amends the New York State education law to expand and strengthen civics and character education in public schools for kindergarten through twelfth grade. The legislation requires school districts to provide a minimum of two hours per week of instruction focusing on civility, citizenship, and character education, starting in the 2025-2026 school year. The curriculum will cover important topics such as honesty, tolerance, racial and global harmony, media literacy, personal responsibility, morals, ethics, and respect for others. The instruction will emphasize the practical application of these lessons and their short-term and long-term impacts on students' lives and the lives of others. Additionally, the bill mandates teaching safe and responsible internet use and broadens the definitions of tolerance, respect, and dignity to include awareness and sensitivity towards people of different races, national origins, religions, abilities, sexual orientations, and genders. The goal is to help students develop essential social and ethical skills that will enhance their contributions to their communities and promote understanding and respect among diverse populations.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6924