The South Dakota Board of Regents is proposing adding a civics literacy requirement to its academic curriculum.
The goal is to empower students to take part in the democratic process, according to a press release the board issued Thursday. The topic was discussed at the board's October meeting.
"Most students who graduate from a South Dakota public university stay in state and establish their careers here," said Board of Regents President Tim Rave. "We understand our role in preparing our state's workforce, and we want to take it a step further by cultivating civic engagement in future generations of lawmakers, city council representatives, school board members, and more."
The Fiscal Year 2025 System Center for Civic Engagement budget request serves as the cornerstone for the programming and engagement envisioned for the civics literacy requirement, according to the board. Officials said they're working to develop the program without passing the cost on to students.
“Civics literacy is a nonpartisan issue that includes enhancing both knowledge and practical application,” said BOR Executive Director Nathan Lukkes. “We need to provide a solid framework for our students to develop the necessary skills in critical thinking, civility, and dispute resolution, while enhancing their understanding and engagement in issues of local, national, and global importance.”
The board said more information on details of the programming and its requirements will be available in the coming months.