HARTFORD- State Rep. Greg Howard (R-43) on Tuesday supported an omnibus education bill on Tuesday that included a provision to promoting student civic engagement.

The legislation, HB 7009 An Act Concerning the Establishment of The Connecticut State Seal of Civics Education and Engagement establishes the Connecticut State Seal of Civics Education and Engagement, which recognizes graduating high school seniors for their exceptional achievement in civics.

To highlight civic engagement in state government and learning the legislative process, Rep. Howard has toured the eastern part of the state with a presentation on “Navigating the CT Legislature.”

This seal is for students who demonstrate civic engagement in school, through the completion of classes and assessments, and outside of the classroom by participating in community service, student government among other civic engagement projects.

Rep. Howard helped negotiate the bill adding in the provision on having an internship with an elected official as one of the criteria.

The bill requires the State Department of Education to establish criteria for awarding the seal, which must at least require the student to:

• Successfully complete a history or social science course for at least two school years, including one U.S. government or civics course
• Participate in at least one civic engagement project (e.g., community service, student government, internship with an elected official, or civic organization involvement)
• Demonstrate proficiency in civics knowledge through a standardized assessment, work portfolio (including civics related essays, projects, or presentations), or other mastery-based assessment or process

Rep. Howard said, “At a time when civic engagement is alarmingly low in our country, this recognition will encourage Connecticut students to learn more about the way our government works and the role they play in shaping society, not just passing a class but contributing to their community. Knowledge is power!”