The Importance of Civics Education Programs in K-12 Schools

American democracy is at risk. The United States isconsidered the world leader in education and influence yet fewcitizens know how their own government works or their responsibilitiesas citizens. The work of civic commitment is left to a small minorityof citizens who choose to participate. There are social core groupssuch as families churches and peers that help develop Americans'knowledge and the skills that shape civic character andcommitments. Social institutions such as schools with their mix ofvarying ages cultures and view points bear a historic responsibility fordeveloping civic competence and participation. Yet schools across thenation do not have a formalized civics curriculum throughout the K-12 educational system. Civic education is one of theessential elements to sustain this constitutional democracy. It is thefoundation for the American identity and yet by the time students reachhigh school they lack even a basic knowledge of civics. Without this indispensable understanding of our nationalcharacter the United State cannot maintain its position as a leader andeducator of democracy.