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Bill

SB 844

STATE GOVERNMENT-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Don Harmon

SB 844 mandates media literacy education in public schools, training teachers and equipping students to critically analyze media and engage responsibly in the digital world.

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Bill Summary · SB 844

Summary of SB 844 - Relating to Media Literacy

Bill Number: SB 844
Introduced On: January 17, 2025
Current Status: Referred to the Education (EDU) and Ways and Means (WAM) Committees
Classification: Legislative Bill
Subject Areas: Digital Citizenship, Media Literacy, Public Schools, Standards-based Curriculum

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SB 844 is to enhance media literacy education within public schools. The bill aims to equip students with the necessary skills to critically analyze media content, understand digital citizenship, and navigate the complexities of information in the digital age. By fostering media literacy, the bill seeks to prepare students to engage responsibly and effectively in a media-saturated environment.

Key Provisions

  • Curriculum Development: The bill mandates the development of a standards-based curriculum focused on media literacy and digital citizenship for public school students.

  • Teacher Training: It includes provisions for training educators on how to effectively teach media literacy concepts and integrate them into existing curricula.

  • Assessment and Evaluation: Schools will be required to implement assessment tools to evaluate students' understanding and application of media literacy skills.

  • Resource Allocation: The bill may provide guidelines for allocating resources to support the implementation of media literacy programs in schools.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Students: The bill directly impacts students in public schools by enhancing their ability to critically engage with media and develop responsible digital citizenship skills.

  • Educators: Teachers will receive training and resources to effectively deliver media literacy education, thereby improving their instructional practices.

  • School Administrators: Administrators will need to oversee the integration of the new curriculum and ensure compliance with the standards set forth in the bill.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:

    • January 17, 2025: SB 844 was introduced.
    • January 21, 2025: The bill passed its first reading in the legislative chamber.
    • January 23, 2025: The bill was referred to the Education and Ways and Means Committees for further consideration.

  • Companion Bill: SB 844 has a companion bill, HB 100, which may address similar issues or provide additional context for media literacy initiatives.

Conclusion

SB 844 represents a significant step towards enhancing media literacy in public education. By establishing a structured approach to teaching these essential skills, the bill aims to prepare students for the challenges of the digital world, fostering informed and responsible citizens. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for education policy and student outcomes will be closely monitored.

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

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