§ 18A:35-40 — Findings, declarations relative to civics education in public schools.

1. The Legislature finds and declares that: a. New Jersey law requires school districts to provide a two-year course of United States history in high school, which is supposed to include curriculum on civics, economics, and the history of the State of New Jersey; however, most school districts' curricula focus solely on a chronology of United States history in meeting this statutory requirement; b. New Jersey law also requires school districts to adopt a course of study about New Jersey history, geography, and community civics in an elementary grade; however, there are no social studies requirements for middle school; c. Civic literacy and engagement are essential to maintaining a representative democracy; d. Unlike 40 other states, New Jersey does not require school districts to provide a specific course in civics; e. By age 10, students possess the higher order thinking skills necessary for a rigorous, reflective course in civics; f. Independent studies conclude that well-designed civics education fosters an understanding and appreciation of democracy and the skills needed for participation in a democratic society; g. Requiring students to complete a civics course in middle school will ensure that all New Jersey students have the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills for active citizenship; h. Professional development for teachers is critical to ensure effective classroom instruction; and i. The New Jersey Center for Civic Education at Rutgers, The State University has substantial expertise and 30 years of experience providing professional development, sample curricula, and resources for New Jersey teachers. L.2021, c.185, s.1.