Oct. 27 is National Civics Day. The purpose is the promotion of civic education in the United States.
The first essay of the Federalist Papers was published on Oct. 27, 1787. The series by James Madison, John Jay and Alexander Hamilton explained the reasons for ratifying the United States Constitution.
Since a government by the people was a new concept, education about the articles of the Constitution was necessary.
Three years ago, the Roosevelt School and the Society of Presidential Descendants realized civic education had taken a nose-dive throughout the country. Members saw a critical need to once again encourage civics as an important component of education, so they established a special day for awareness.
A civic education begins with an understanding of United States history and the fundamentals of our democracy. It includes an awareness of modern issues and local concerns. Through civics, students explore how citizens become involved in the local community and contribute to the greater society.
Civic knowledge is vital for shaping informed citizens. Youth explore the principles which underpin our free society and are inspired to become engaged adults. They discover ways to participate in public service.
Civic discourse requires critical thinking skills, the opportunity to access valid information and the ability to understand various points of view regarding issues. It includes an appreciation of diverse perspectives and avoids simple answers.
Through the civics curriculum, youth examine the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. They explore how our constitutional government works and is safeguarded by checks and balances.
Students learn skills to participate in public problem solving. They discover how public speaking, petitioning, protesting and voting create public policy. Understanding how the country protects the rights and welfare of all is part of civics.
Civic knowledge is a necessity in this age of uncertainty. A well-informed citizenry is essential for the maintenance of freedom based on constitutional principles.
President John F. Kennedy made it clear, “There is an old saying that the course of civilization is a race between catastrophe and education. In a democracy such as ours, we must make sure that education wins the race.”
During 2013, Tom Torlakson, then the Superintendent of Public Instruction in California, and California Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye believed civic education had diminished in California. They formed a taskforce to improve K-12 civic learning in California.
The judge and education superintendent gave the taskforce a year to develop recommendations for a better civics curriculum. California continues to struggle with civic education.
There are many difficulties with the arduous task. Too often teachers themselves lack a firm civic education, so they are not prepared to address the basics. Educators struggle with time to offer civic studies because there is no specific outlined curriculum.
Many parents and local school officials fear that a mandate to teach civics might disintegrate into party politics. Some political leaders may not truly want a citizenry that is aware of the government’s constitutional limitations.
California Education Code, since 1986, requires one semester course for American government and civics in high school. In short, civic education is an add-on during a single semester that touches on all facets of United States government.
While there is an attempt to provide civic education through integrated curriculum, civics as a standalone class is not required. The hope is that civic principles are mentioned in other courses. This approach leaves many voids in civic education.
In President Kennedy’s time, a set civics curriculum was a given in public schools. Until the late 20th century, demonstrating civic knowledge was a graduation requirement.
In recognition of Civics Day, citizens might talk with school boards to explore possibilities for improving civic education locally.
Janet Miller is a freelance writer specializing in family faith. She offers Family Prayers and Activities: Weekly Guides on compact disc for families to explore the Bible together. Email jmiller@dospalos.org.
