Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis Rejects Critical Race Theory for Proposed Civics Curriculum

Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis announced in a press conference Wednesday a proposed civics education curriculum for the state, one that would “expressly exclude” critical race theory.

“Florida’s civics curriculum will incorporate foundational concepts with the best materials, and it will expressly exclude unsanctioned narratives like critical race theory and other unsubstantiated theories,” DeSantis said. “Let me be clear: There is no room in our classrooms for things like critical race theory.

“Teaching kids to hate their country and to hate each other is not worth one red cent of taxpayer money.”

DeSantis’ proposed $106 million curriculum would instead focus on both creating a “lasting legacy” for Sunshine State teachers as well as working toward making “Florida the national leader in civics education.”

The full details of the proposed plan can be found at flgov.com:

— Creation of the Florida Civics Seal of Excellence—a new professional licensure endorsement for educators in civics education.

— A $3,000 bonus for educators who complete training and earn the Civics Seal of Excellence endorsement.

— $16.5 million for additional training, professional development and classroom support for educators and principals seeking to elevate civics education in Florida schools.

— Creation of regional civics coaches to provide supports for teachers in building out civics programs.

— Over $17 million to bolster Florida’s civics curriculum and expedite the implementation of Florida’s B.E.S.T. Standards into Florida K-12 public schools.

— $6.5 million for a career pathway program to launch pilot programs for public service incubators to develop partnerships between secondary schools and government institutions, allowing students to explore government and public administration and inspire the next generation of leaders in Florida.

“Through this plan we will preserve, elevate and expand access to civics education for the children of today and the classrooms of tomorrow,” DeSantis said to a round of applause. {eoa}