The bill proposes to repeal the existing section 170.011 of Missouri law and replace it with a new section that outlines updated examination requirements for high school graduation. It mandates that all public and private schools in Missouri, excluding proprietary schools, provide regular instruction on the U.S. Constitution, the Missouri Constitution, American history, and civics starting no later than the seventh grade. Additionally, it requires that students must satisfactorily complete a statewide standardized examination on these subjects to receive their high school diploma or certificate of graduation. The bill also allows school districts to waive this requirement for students transferring from out of state if they can provide acceptable documentation of prior coursework. Furthermore, the new section emphasizes the inclusion of the racial equality movement in American history courses and establishes a committee formed by the state board of education to develop the standardized examination, which will be staffed by the State Historical Society of Missouri. The bill also stipulates that students who have completed the required coursework and passed the examination at one college or university will not need to retake the examination if they transfer to another institution. Lastly, it allows for the nomination of students who excel in government and citizenship principles for recognition by the state board of education, while exempting foreign exchange students from these requirements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced (5895H.01): 170.011