Bill > HB1524

This bill requires all high schools in the state to include a logic and critical thinking course as part of their curriculum, with a minimum of 54 hours of instruction dedicated to these skills. The bill defines "critical thinking" as the ability to understand and evaluate evidence, distinguish valid from invalid arguments, question beliefs and sources, and recognize psychological traps and logical fallacies. It amends existing education laws to incorporate logic and critical thinking as a key component of an adequate education, adding it to the criteria for educational content and accountability. The State Board of Education will be responsible for developing and distributing policy guidelines for these courses, ensuring consistent implementation across school districts. The requirements will not take effect until the 2026-2027 school year, giving schools time to prepare and develop appropriate curriculum. While the bill does not provide specific funding, the Department of Education estimates content development costs could be around $1 million, with potential additional costs for staffing and district-level implementation. The goal is to enhance students' analytical and reasoning skills by formally integrating logic and critical thinking instruction into high school education.

Education

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=1883&inflect=2