public schools; civics instruction requirement
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill requires Arizona public schools to include specific instruction on the founding documents of the United States, such as the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, in their social studies courses. It mandates that schools teach about the historical context and significance of these documents, as well as their relationship to key events and movements in American history. Schools are also required to observe ‘Celebrate Freedom Week’ during which students may recite the passage of the Declaration of Independence, with exemptions for student requests or conscientious objections.
Key provisions
- Public schools must include instruction on the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution in social studies courses for grades 1-12.
- Instruction must cover the historical context and meaning of these founding documents.
- Schools must teach about the relationship between the founding documents and topics like immigration, the American Revolution, and social movements.
- Students in grades 3-12 will recite the passage of the Declaration of Independence, with exemptions available.
- The State Board of Education can create rules and policies to implement this law.
- Schools cannot censor the founding documents to exclude religious references.
- Schools can designate an instructional week as ‘Celebrate Freedom Week’.
Who is affected
- Public schools
- Students (grades 1-12)
- Social studies teachers
Bill text
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