Public Act 0254 101ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HB2265 Enrolled LRB101 04754 AXK 49763 b

Public Act 101-0254

AN ACT concerning education.

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Illinois, represented in the General Assembly:

Section 5. The School Code is amended by adding Section 27-3.10 as follows:

(105 ILCS 5/27-3.10 new)

Sec. 27-3.10. Elementary school civics course of study. In addition to the instruction required to be provided under Section 27-3 of this Code, every public elementary school shall include in its 6th, 7th, or 8th grade curriculum, beginning with the 2020-2021 school year, at least one semester of civics education, which shall help young people acquire and learn to use the skills, knowledge, and attitudes that will prepare them to be competent and responsible citizens throughout their lives. Civics education course content shall focus on government institutions, the discussion of current and societal issues, service learning, and simulations of the democratic process. Civics education in 6th, 7th, or 8th grade shall be in accordance with Illinois Learning Standards for social science. Additionally, school districts may consult with civics education stakeholders, deemed appropriate by the State Board of Education, with regard to civics education curriculum for 6th, 7th, or 8th grade. School districts may utilize private funding available for the purposes of offering civics education.

Section 99. Effective date. This Act takes effect July 1, 2020.