Civic Education Bills Introduced by Rep. Conroy

Based on the recommendations of the Illinois Task Force on Civic Education, Representative Deb Conroy introduced two new bills in the Illinois House to strengthen civic education in Illinois on Friday February 27, 2015.  When introducing the legislation, Rep. Conroy said: "Many students graduate without even basic knowledge of current events and how to become active members of their communities."

House Bill 4025 aims to promote greater civic learning through a required civics course for all Illinois high school students.

House Bill 4024 supports teacher training, the greatest area of need for implementation of a new course.  This new measure ensures that professional development activities align with best practices in civics education.

As these bills move through the legislature, we'll keep you informed of future developments and how you can help.

Rep. Conroy's press release announcing House Bills 4025 and 4024

Press release from above  published in the Chicago Tribune

Task Force Final Report and Public Comments

About the Illinois Task Force on Civic Education

• The Task Force was established by the legislature to study the status of civic education in Illinois and make recommendations for improvement.  
• The Task Force was comprised of legislators, educators, school administrators, and community leaders from across the state.   The findings of the Task Force showed a strong need to strengthen civic education in our state.

• CAC was instrumental in advocating for the Task Force and CAC Executive Director Maryam Judar served as a member.
• Illinois is one of only ten states in the country that does not require a civics or government course to graduate from high school.