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What is PA ACT 35?

Published in Pennsylvania Education Law 2 mins read

PA Act 35 is a Pennsylvania state law enacted in 2018 that mandates a specific civic education assessment for students across public school districts.

Understanding PA Act 35

Act 35 was passed by the Pennsylvania State Legislature with the aim of ensuring that students in the Commonwealth gain a foundational understanding of civics, government, and United States history before graduating. This legislation highlights the importance of civic literacy in preparing young citizens for active participation in a democratic society.

Key Provisions of Act 35

The core requirement of Act 35 is a one-time assessment for students within a defined grade span and subject areas.

Here's a breakdown of its key components:

Aspect Detail
Year Enacted 2018
Scope All school districts in Pennsylvania
Assessment Mandate Students must be assessed once in their academic career
Grade Levels Between grades 7 and 12
Subjects Covered Civics, Government, and United States History
Effective Date Beginning in the 2020-2021 school year

This means that sometime between their seventh and twelfth grade, every student attending a public school in Pennsylvania will take an assessment designed to measure their knowledge in these crucial areas.

Implementation and Impact

The implementation of Act 35 began with the 2020-2021 school year. This legislation empowers local school districts to develop or choose the assessment tools that best fit their curriculum and student needs, as long as they cover the mandated subjects. The goal is not necessarily to create a high-stakes test, but rather to ensure that schools are consistently addressing these vital components of civic education and to gauge student comprehension.

Why Civic Education Matters

The emphasis on civics, government, and U.S. History through Act 35 underscores their significance in shaping informed and engaged citizens.

  • Promotes civic literacy: Equips students with knowledge about their rights, responsibilities, and how government functions.
  • Encourages participation: Fosters an understanding of democratic processes, motivating students to participate in their communities and beyond.
  • Builds historical context: Provides insight into the foundations and evolution of the United States, helping students understand current events in a broader context.
  • Develops critical thinking: Encourages students to analyze information, form reasoned opinions, and engage in constructive discourse.

For more information on Act 35, you can refer to resources provided by local school districts, such as the North Penn School District's overview of Act 35.