(STATEHOUSE) – The Indiana House of Representatives recently voted in support of legislation that would incorporate civics education into Hoosier students’ middle school curriculum, according to State Rep. Chris May (R-Bedford).
May, who supported the bill, said the proposal would require students to take at least one semester of a civics course in grades 6, 7 or 8.
“Having an understanding and appreciation of how our government works, as well as the rights all Hoosiers and Americans are granted, is essential to a healthy and well-functioning democracy,” May said. “We must ensure Hoosiers of all ages take pride and ownership in maintaining a government that represents everyone.”
House Bill 1384 would task the Indiana Department of Education and State Board of Education to develop standards for civics education.
According to May, the legislation comes out of the Civic Education Task Force, which was responsible for specific, actionable, recommendations based on research and ideas from around the country and state.
House Bill 1384 now heads to the Senate for further consideration. For more information, visit iga.in.gov.