State Seal of Civic Engagement.

Assembly Member Jackson's proposal to update California's State Seal of Civic Engagement would require students to demonstrate understanding of democratic institutions' importance, adding to existing civic education excellence requirements. The measure directs the Superintendent of Public Instruction to recommend revised award criteria by January 2027 that incorporate knowledge of fundamental democratic pillars, including the free press, library access, compulsory education, and the federalist system.

The bill maintains the current framework requiring students to show mastery of the U.S. and California Constitutions, complete relevant coursework, and participate in community service or civic activities. Under the measure, the State Board of Education must evaluate and act on the Superintendent's recommended criteria updates by January 2028. The proposal preserves school districts' ability to choose whether to participate in the program.

This update builds upon the original 2020 criteria, which incorporated the Education Commission of the States' Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning and input from current history-social science teachers. The existing requirements ensure the seal remains accessible to all students while recognizing achievement beyond standard academic metrics.