Civic Learning Week Prompts Push to Scale K–12 Civics in California

Overview

• Advocates are urging state leaders this week to expand civic learning statewide, tying the effort to a consequential 2026 election cycle and California’s ballot-driven policymaking.
• Participation in the State Seal of Civic Engagement grew to 23,040 students in 2024–25, yet it reached only 4.6% of graduates and is available only in districts that adopt the program.
• California Serves has awarded grants to just 35 schools, districts and county offices over the past three years, prompting calls for more funding and inclusion of civic learning in Local Control and Accountability Plans.
• PPIC survey data show majorities across political and demographic groups support prioritizing civic education, and the chief justice–backed Power of Democracy initiative continues to elevate civic learning in schools.
• Experts recommend integrating civics across grades and subjects, expanding access to the state seal, and investing in teacher preparation as 80% of social studies teachers report feeling underprepared and 2022 NAEP results show low national proficiency.