American government and civics: curriculum guide: State Seal of Civic Engagement.

Senators Ochoa Bogh and Allen's proposal for California's civics education framework calls for development of a comprehensive curriculum guide for a year-long American government and civics course, while updating criteria for the State Seal of Civic Engagement program.

The Department of Education would contract with county offices of education to create a curriculum covering multiple levels of governance. The guide would detail the functions of federal departments, California's state institutions, local government bodies, special districts, and Tribal governments. It would also address direct democracy mechanisms, civic participation methods, and voting processes - from registration and ballot completion to voter rights and electoral systems. The curriculum would incorporate tools for constructive political dialogue, including Socratic seminars and structured debates.

For schools participating in the State Seal of Civic Engagement program, successful completion of the new year-long course would fulfill the requirement to demonstrate understanding of U.S. and California constitutions, governmental functions, and democratic processes. Students would still need to meet additional existing criteria to receive the seal. Participating schools must maintain records of seal recipients and mark qualifying diplomas and transcripts accordingly. Implementation of the curriculum development provisions would begin upon legislative appropriation of necessary funds.