A Crisis in Civic Education

Article excerpt

Nearly one-third of American students score at a below-basic level in civics knowledge, according to recent assessment data. The finding has sparked concern among education observers about what young people understand regarding government structure, constitutional principles, and democratic participation. Parents and policymakers are questioning why civic instruction, once a cornerstone of American education, has weakened in schools. The article examines what's driving this gap and what reversing it would require, suggesting that restoring substantive civics curricula should be a priority for districts and families alike.