The South Dakota House Education Committee has passed a measure requiring public schools to display the state seal or state motto. South Dakota’s state motto is “Under God the People Rule.”
Proponents of House Bill 11-19 say displaying the seal or motto will serve as a reminder of the state’s ideals. Debbie Pease with Family Heritage Alliance spoke in favor of the measure.
“I like the flexibility that the bill provides to schools allowing them to use student artwork to fulfill this requirement.”
Advocates representing teachers, school districts, and school administrators spoke against the bill. Opponents say teaching about the state motto and seal is already required in state education standards. They say this is a mandate on schools that adds no value to education.
House Bill 11-19 passed by a vote of 10 to 4 and now moves to the House floor.
In 2019 state lawmakers required schools to display the national motto “In God We Trust.”