Is civics education included in the Education Law of New York?
Yes. Article 17 – Instruction in Certain Subjects, Section 801-a, addresses Instruction in civility, citizenship and character education: “The regents shall ensure that the course of instruction in grades kindergarten through twelve includes a component on civility, citizenship and character education. Such component shall instruct students on the principles of honesty, tolerance, personal responsibility, respect for others, observation of laws and rules, courtesy, dignity and other traits which will enhance the quality of their experiences in, and contributions to, the community. The regents shall determine how to incorporate such component in existing curricula and the commissioner shall promulgate any regulations needed to carry out such determination of the regents.” Such instruction can occur throughout all subject areas in a standards-based teaching and learning program.
