Civics Learning Act of 2026

This bill aims to significantly enhance civics education across the United States by amending the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. It addresses concerns about declining civics knowledge and political polarization by prioritizing innovative civics learning and teaching, particularly for students and teachers in high-need schools. The legislation seeks to foster a more informed and engaged electorate by strengthening understanding of the nation's constitutional republic and democratic processes.

The bill expands the range of activities eligible for federal support, including hands-on civic engagement, comprehensive instruction on the history and principles of the U.S. Constitution—encompassing the Bill of Rights, women's suffrage, and the civil rights movement—and service learning projects. It also encourages student participation in school governance and explores modern learning methods like online and video game-based education. These provisions are designed to make civics education more dynamic and relevant for today's students.

Furthermore, the legislation mandates a diverse distribution of grants, ensuring that funding reaches geographically varied areas, including urban, suburban, and rural communities, and public elementary schools. Specific allocation requirements dictate that at least 30 percent of grant funds serve elementary schools, at least 30 percent serve middle schools, and no more than 40 percent serve high schools. The bill authorizes an appropriation of $70,000,000 for fiscal year 2027 to support these expanded civics education initiatives, with a preference for programs that strengthen civics learning.