Rhode Island: The Civics We Teach, the Democracy We Get

In the Season 2 premiere of Law 401, hosts MDB and Nicole sit down with Representative June Speakman to discuss the state of civic education in Rhode Island. Drawing on her experience as a legislator and professor at Roger Williams University, Rep. Speakman explores how civics should work vs how it really plays out in classrooms and at the State House.

The conversation looks at Rhode Island’s 2021 Civic Literacy Act, which requires proficiency for all public high school grads. It also examines whether K–12 educators have the time and funding to teach meaningful civics. And what protesting and voicing your opinion looks like when done respectfully.

Resources:

Representative June Speakman

https://www.rilegislature.gov/representatives/speakman/Pages/Biography.aspx

https://www.rwu.edu/academics/schools/fssns/faculty/june-s-speakman

Civic Literacy Act

https://governor.ri.gov/press-releases/governor-mckee-signs-legislation-civics-education-schools

Cook v. McKee

https://clearinghouse.net/case/43400/

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Disclaimer

The information provided is for general informational purposes only and may not apply to individual situations; listeners are encouraged to consult their own legal counsel before acting on any information discussed.