Establishing a seal of civics excellence program administered by the department of education to recognize student excellence in civics

This bill establishes a seal of excellence program to recognize students graduating from high school who have demonstrated proficiency in civics. The bill directs the department of education to develop and administer the program. The department shall determine the minimum requirements necessary for a student to obtain a civics seal, including knowledge of American government and participation in civic and community activities. The department must produce a civic seal, which may include a sticker for a student’s transcript or a certificate. A seal of civics excellence must be affixed to the student’s diploma and noted on the student’s transcript. The bill provides that participation in the program by a school district or accredited nonpublic school is voluntary. A participating school must notify the department of the names of students who qualify for a seal, and the department must provide the appropriate number of seals or other authorized endorsement. The department may charge a nominal fee to cover printing and posting charges related to issuance of the civics seal.