The bill amends the Revised School Code to establish a mandatory constitutional literacy course for high school students, beginning with those entering high school in the 2026-2027 school year. This course will consist of two semesters and cover essential topics such as the intellectual sources of the U.S. founding documents, the American Revolution, the Constitution and Bill of Rights, and the principles of the U.S. republican government. It also addresses the dangers of communist and socialist governments, the meaning of the Pledge of Allegiance, and the significance of veterans. Schools are prohibited from censoring content based on religious or cultural references and must ensure that teachers do not instruct students in material contrary to the Constitution, with penalties for non-compliance. Additionally, the bill modifies high school diploma requirements to include the completion of this course and prevents teachers from being compelled to affirm beliefs related to systemic racism or gender identity that conflict with their personal convictions.

Moreover, the bill encourages school districts to ensure that students in grades K to 6 complete at least one credit in a language other than English, including American Sign Language, and allows for online coursework to fulfill this requirement. Starting in the 2023 school year, students entering grade 8 must complete a ½ credit course in personal finance to graduate, which can count towards various credit requirements. The bill also mandates that teacher certification in Michigan requires proficiency in the U.S. Constitution and the Michigan Constitution starting in the 2026-2027 school year, along with a course on reading disabilities and differentiated instruction. It introduces a new section that stipulates that teacher preparation programs must include instruction on constitutional literacy, ensuring future educators are equipped to teach this critical subject.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 380.1278, 380.1531