HI HB2494

Appropriates funds from general revenues for fiscal year 2022-2023 to expand civic education in public schools, including professional development and classroom resources related to Hawaii core standards in social studies.

Appropriates funds to hire one full-time equivalent permanent civic education resource teacher position for the department of education in fiscal year 2022-2023.

Finds that Hawaii had among the lowest voter turnout rates in the nation during the 2020 general election, with 40 states having higher participation.

Notes that the board of education adopted Hawaii core standards in social studies in 2018 but the department has not conducted systematic teacher training on the new standards or addressed the lack of culturally appropriate historical and civic education materials.

Takes effect on July 1, 2050.