http://image.exct.net/lib/febe15787c660074/m/1/state-policy-framewo..." border="0" title="state-policy-framework-1" class="CToWUd a6T"/>

While many Americans might agree on the importance of preparing young people for democratic life, civic education receives relatively less attention than other school subjects. Further, despite evidence of the clear connections between civic education and students' readiness for college and career, opportunities for civic education are generally less than ideal across the P-20 spectrum and are largely determined by students'  socioeconomic status. 

With guidance from civic education leaders from across the country, the National Center for Learning and Civic Engagement developed the State Civic Education Policy Framework. 

This paper draws heavily on existing research, knowledge of best practice and policy proposals to provide a concise guide for state education leaders. This effort is intended to provide direction to state policymakers as they address the complexities of preparing students for college, career and civic life. It allows for adaptation to state- and site-specific circumstances and may be implemented in whole or in piecemeal fashion, according to states' individual circumstances. 

The document includes examples of current state efforts that fulfill portions of the recommendations included in the framework. 

"We have seen many states make significant strides in support of civic education in the last few years," said NCLCE Director Paul Baumann. "NCLCE hopes that this document can help state education leaders to address civic education in manners that are consistent with the best practices of the field."