Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB776

Introduced
3/3/25  

Caption

In high schools, further providing for assessment of civic knowledge.

Impact

The implementation of HB 776 will significantly impact the educational standards within Pennsylvania's high schools. By mandating a civic knowledge assessment, the state aims to foster a more informed citizenry capable of engaging effectively in democratic processes. This legislative change could necessitate adjustments in both curricula and educational resources to prepare students adequately for the assessment.

Summary

House Bill 776 proposes an amendment to the Public School Code of 1949 concerning civic knowledge assessment for high school students in Pennsylvania. Under this bill, beginning in the 2028-2029 academic year, students will be required to answer at least 60% of the questions correctly on a civic knowledge assessment to graduate from high school or obtain a general equivalency diploma. This requirement aims to ensure that students possess a foundational understanding of civic principles and responsibilities before they complete their secondary education.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 776 appears to be supportive among those advocating for enhanced civic education in schools. Proponents argue that it is essential for students to acquire the knowledge necessary for active citizenship, especially in a time when civic engagement is crucial. However, there may also be concerns regarding the feasibility of implementing such assessments, particularly the potential impacts on students with individualized education programs.

Contention

While many view the bill as a positive step toward strengthening civic education, some opponents might raise issues regarding the practicality and equity of implementing standardized assessments. Critics could argue that the requirements may disadvantage certain groups of students, particularly those who require alternative learning strategies, emphasizing the need for a careful design that accommodates all learners.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1373

In high schools, further providing for assessment of civic knowledge.

PA HB795

In high schools, further providing for courses of study.

PA HB856

In sales and use tax, further providing for assessment; in personal income tax, further providing for assessment; in corporate net income tax, further providing for assessments; in procedure and administration, further providing for petition for reassessment; and, in general provisions, further providing for petitions for refunds and providing for compromise or adjustment of assessments.

PA SB84

In construction and renovation of buildings by school entities, further providing for definitions and for building condition assessments.

PA HB2424

In charter schools, further providing for funding for charter schools.

PA SB799

In charter schools, further providing for funding for charter schools.

PA HB495

In charter schools, further providing for enrollment.

PA HB2358

In charter schools, further providing for funding for cyber charter schools.

PA HB233

In charter schools, further providing for powers of board of trustees.

PA SB930

In student supports, further providing for definitions; in school safety and security, further prov iding for definitions, for School Safety and Security Committee, for school safety and security assessment providers, for School Safety and Security Grant Program, for school safety and security coordinator, for school safety and security training and for reporting and memorandum of understanding; in school security, further providing for training, for school resource officers, for school security guards and for duties of commission; in Safe2Say Program, further providing for intent, for definitions, for Safe2Say Program and for annual report; in threat assessment, further providing for definitions, for threat assessment teams and for threat assessment guidelines, training and information materials; and making editorial changes.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.