HB469 Summary

• Requires comprehensive character education programs in all Alabama public schools, grades K-12, effective beginning with the 2018-2019 school year.

• Mandates instruction five times per week during the school year for a minimum of 40 minutes per day.

• Program must focus on developing character traits including courage, patriotism, citizenship, honesty, fairness, respect, kindness, cooperation, self-control, courtesy, compassion, tolerance, diligence, generosity, punctuality, cleanliness, cheerfulness, school pride, respect for environment, patience, creativity, sportsmanship, loyalty, and perseverance.

• Requires each character education program to include the Pledge of Allegiance and address methods of discouraging bullying and violent acts against fellow students.

• Requires local school boards to certify annually to the State Board of Education that schools are meeting the comprehensive character education program requirements.