NO. R-442.  Joint resolution relating to civics education.

(J.R.S.65)

Offered by:  Senator Dunne of Windsor County, Senator Bloomer of Rutland County, Senator Collins of Franklin County, Senator Condos of Chittenden County, Senator Doyle of Washington County, Senator Gander of Windham County, Senator Miller of Chittenden County, Senator Mullin of Rutland County and Senator Sears of Bennington County.

Whereas, the general assembly believes that civics education is vital to the future of our democracy, and

Whereas, involvement in the democratic process through interaction with adults who are engaged in the process and observation of our representatives and senators at work is one of the best ways to demonstrate the importance of public participation in a representative democracy, and

Whereas, because Vermont is small, we can offer the opportunity to all students during their school years to visit our capitol complex and meet with legislators, now therefore be it

Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives:

That the legislative council may seek funds to develop and implement civics education programs, materials, and activities which facilitate connections between legislators and Vermont’s young people and maximize use of the capitol complex and its resources for the purpose of educating our future citizens and leaders about representative democracy, and be it further

Resolved:  That programs carried out with these funds shall be designed to engage young people in democratic processes, increase their understanding of democratic principles, and inspire participation at various levels of government, and be it further

Resolved:  That in order to aid it in the development and implementation of civics education programs, the legislative council may appoint an advisory committee consisting of educators and others who may be able to provide guidance and advice.