Every Student is a Citizen Act

The Every Student is a Citizen Act aims to strengthen American history and civics education in K-12 schools by amending the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. The bill proposes an annual appropriation of $40 million to support various educational initiatives designed to increase students' understanding of the U.S. Constitution, the democratic process, and the responsibilities of citizenship. It would also permanently authorize the Department of Education’s American History and Civics Academies, which provide professional development for teachers and intensive workshops for students.

If enacted, the legislation would encourage schools to implement hands-on, nonpartisan learning activities such as mock elections, model Congresses, and service-learning projects. It also specifies support for media literacy programs to help students critically evaluate information, as well as opportunities for students to engage with local government and elected officials. Other proposed activities include field trips to historical sites, participation in school governance or journalism, and the use of interactive technology, such as educational video games, to teach civic concepts.