Whereas the most recent National Assessment of Education Progress indicates that one-third of high school seniors lack a basic grasp of the structure and operations of American government; and

Whereas 18 to 30 year-olds vote at barely half the rate of their parents, demonstrating their lack of interest and engagement in public affairs; and

Whereas civic knowledge and engagement are essential to maintaining our representative democracy; and

Whereas the civic mission of the schools, that is, creating citizens with the knowledge, the skills and the inclination to participate in a democratic society, is the very purpose for which public schools were established;

We agree that:

• While the family and other institutions help to develop civic knowledge, skills and dispositions, it is one of the primary responsibilities of the schools.
• Civic education requires an understanding not only of the functioning of government but also of history, geography, economics and other social sciences in order to understand current domestic and international public policy issues.
• Well-defined state social studies standards and graduation requirements are necessary to ensure that civic education is taught effectively in K-12.
• Teacher education and professional development are important to ensure effective classroom instruction in civic education.
• Well-designed school programs that foster an understanding and appreciation of democracy and fundamental constitutional principles are essential to civic education.

In recognition of these findings, we resolve to work together to further the civic mission of the schools.

Dated: March 16, 2004