Representative Brian C. Newberry to submit legislation requiring civic literacy in Rhode Island schools

2/13/2020

News

State House, Providence, RI – Rhode Island State Representative Brian C. Newberry (R-Smithfield) submitted ‘The Civics Literacy Act,' which if passed, would require the commissioner of elementary and secondary education to adopt a course of study promoting civic literacy.

State Representative Brian C. Newberry (R, District 48 - North Smithfield, Burrillville)

The course of study, as proposed by Newberry, was introduced over general concern that civic literacy is declining nationwide. The curriculum would focus on the nation’s founding and related documents, including the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution, and the Federalist Papers.

“The adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the signing of the United States Constitution were significant events in the history of the United States and should be mandatory learning for students, so they may better understand the principles upon which our great nation was founded,” said Newberry.

“The Federalist Papers embody the most eloquent and forceful argument made in support of the adoption of our Republic form of government. These documents stand as the inspiration for our national identity and the vehicle for orderly growth and change.”

Under Newberry’s legislation, the teaching of the nation’s founding and related documents, would be required statewide, during a student’s high school years.

“I am also asking, under this legislation, that the commissioner of elementary and secondary education submit an annual report to the Governor and to the legislature, describing the specific metrics used to measure the effectiveness of these courses,” Newberry stated.

Co-sponsors of this act include Rhode Island State Representatives Gregg M. Amore (D-East Providence), Lauren H. Carson (D-Newport), John G. Edwards (D-Tiverton), and Rebecca M. Kislak (D-Providence).

Additional Information:

House Bill No. 7577

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In 1636, Roger Williams, founder of Rhode Island, established the first working model of Democracy after being banished from Massachusetts for his “extreme views” concerning freedom of speech and religion. Thomas Jefferson and John Adams publicly acknowledged Williams as the originator of these concepts, along with the freedom of public assembly, in the First Amendment in the United States Constitution. Today, Rhode Island House Republicans uphold the liberties designed by our Founders and preserved in our Constitution, and are the primary legislative body promoting lean government, fighting for lower taxes, and advocating for initiatives and policies that improve the economy and in turn, the lives of Rhode Islanders. As members of a part-time assembly, we are small business owners, retired educators, community activists, lawyers, farmers, military service veterans, volunteers, former local officials, retired social workers, coaches, musicians, churchgoers and board directors -- bringing these community engagement and professional experiences to our work, on your behalf, at the Rhode Island State House.