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HB 2724

American Civics and History Act

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Elías Coop-González

The American Civics and History Act mandates West Virginia schools to teach U.S. history and government, enhancing civic knowledge and engagement before high school graduation.

To House Education
#education(k12)
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Bill Summary · HB 2724

Summary of HB 2724: American Civics and History Act

Overview

Bill Number: HB 2724
Title: American Civics and History Act
Status: To House Education
Introduced: February 5, 2025
Primary Sponsor: Rep. Daniel Didech
Co-Sponsors: Patrick J. Joyce, Doris Turner, Mattie Hunter, Joyce Mason, Anthony DeLuca, Sue Scherer

The American Civics and History Act aims to enhance the education of students in West Virginia regarding the principles of democracy, the structure of government, and the historical context of American civics.

Purpose

The primary intent of this legislation is to:
- Teach and promote the ideals of democracy and economic freedom.
- Increase students' understanding of the U.S. government and the State of West Virginia's role in protecting citizens against tyranny through a system of checks and balances.

Key Provisions

Required Instruction

  • Curriculum Requirements:
    • Public schools must provide at least one semester of instruction in U.S. history, U.S. government, and American civics before students complete the eighth grade and again in high school before graduation.
    • Instruction must cover:
    • The institutions and structure of American government.
    • American political philosophy and history.
    • A comparative analysis of various political ideologies (e.g., capitalism, socialism, totalitarianism).
    • Use of primary sources and interactive learning techniques.

Accuracy and Suitability of Instructional Materials

  • All instructional materials must be reviewed and approved by the West Virginia Department of Education for accuracy and suitability.
  • Errata statements must be provided for any identified errors.

Accountability Measures

  • Starting in the 2025/2026 school year, high school students will take a civics test based on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services civics test.
  • Schools must report aggregate data on student performance, including median scores and pass rates.

Severability

  • The act includes a severability clause, ensuring that if any provision is found invalid, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:
    • Public school students in West Virginia, educators, and the West Virginia Department of Education.
  • Educational Outcomes:
    • Aims to improve civic knowledge and engagement among students, preparing them to participate actively in democracy.
  • Implementation Timeline:
    • The act is set to begin implementation with the 2025/2026 school year.

Legislative Actions

  • The bill has undergone several legislative actions, including amendments and co-sponsorship additions, and is currently awaiting further consideration in the House Education Committee.

This summary provides a concise overview of the American Civics and History Act, highlighting its goals, requirements, and potential implications for education in West Virginia.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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