Wyland Introduces Legislative Package to Expand Civics Education in Public Schools

Senator Mark Wyland (R-Carlsbad) this week introduced a trio of bills that will increase understanding of American government, history and citizenship in public schools, completing his civics education package to strengthen civics education in California.

“It’s unfortunate that everywhere we look, civic participation amongst students is non-existent. Students are more interested in voting for American Idol than they are for President,” Wyland said. “We can no longer continue allowing students to graduate from our public school system without a basic understanding of American history and government.”

A daily patriotic exercise is currently required in schools and while the Pledge of Allegiance satisfies this requirement, existing law does not specify what that exercise must be. Senate Bill 1274 would instead require students at public elementary and secondary schools to recite the Pledge of Allegiance everyday as part of those exercises, while still respecting exemptions for those students who are religiously or philosophically opposed to reciting the Pledge. The bill also requires that upon finishing third grade, students will have memorized the Pledge of Allegiance and the United States National Anthem, so by sixth grade words like “pledge,” “allegiance” and “republic” are understood.

Senate Bills 1275 and 1254 would improve upon the California High School Exit Exam, addressing the need for an additional section that covers American history, government and civics. Because recent research shows that only 49 percent of 8th graders can link religious freedom to the Bill of Rights, and only 5 percent of 12th graders can explain checks on the President’s power, Wyland took action.

“Studies show that most students lack a proficient understanding of civics and American history, yet civics education continues to be low on the totem pole in our classrooms,” said Wyland. By increasing awareness of what it means to be an American, we affirm the importance of patriotism and civics in our education system.”

SB 1274 was introduced this week in the Senate and is currently awaiting committee assignment.

Senator Mark Wyland represents the 38th Senate District, which includes cities in north San Diego County and south Orange County.