House Bill No. 7009 aims to enhance civics education and engagement in Connecticut schools by establishing the Connecticut State Seal of Civics Education and Engagement. This seal will be awarded to students who demonstrate proficiency in civics through specific coursework, civic engagement projects, and assessments, with the seal noted on transcripts starting with the graduating class of 2026. The bill also emphasizes the importance of multilingual learner data transparency, mandating the inclusion of various data points in the state-wide public school information system, and ensuring the rights of multilingual learners and their families are protected, including access to bilingual education and translation services.

Additionally, the bill introduces significant amendments to existing education laws, including provisions for crisis response drills, updates to school resource officer agreements, and changes to budgeting processes for regional school districts. It establishes a working group to address antisemitism in schools, modifies kindergarten admission policies, and extends deadlines for addressing racial imbalances in schools. Key insertions include the requirement for local boards to provide detailed financial information in budgets and the establishment of rights for multilingual learners. The bill also mandates that health assessments for students be conducted with parental involvement and outlines specific requirements for these assessments. Overall, HB7009 seeks to improve educational equity, safety, and inclusivity in Connecticut's public schools.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 10-5, 10-221a
ED Joint Favorable: 10-5, 10-221a
File No. 317: 10-5, 10-221a
File No. 926: 10-5, 10-221a, 10-233j, 10-15c, 10-226b, 10-226c, 10-226d, 10-222, 10-233m, 10-206, 10-357e, 10-231, 10-234gg