HF2231: Seal of Civics Excellence Program

Establishes a Seal of Civics Excellence program to honor students graduating from high school who have shown proficiency in civics. The Iowa Department of Education will set requirements for earning the seal, such as knowledge of American government and civic engagement. Participation by schools is voluntary, and the department may charge a nominal fee to cover costs. Effective 7/1/2026.

Key Points & Impact:

• Adds a new Seal of Civics Excellence program to Iowa law, administered by the Department of Education.

• Recognizes students graduating from high school who demonstrate proficiency in civics, including knowledge of American government and participation in civic/community activities.

• Department of Education will set the minimum requirements for students to earn the seal.

• The seal may be represented as a sticker for transcripts or a certificate, and must be affixed to the diploma and noted on the transcript of qualifying students.

• Participation in the seal program is voluntary for school districts and accredited nonpublic schools.

• Schools must notify the department of qualifying students, and the department will provide the appropriate number of seals or endorsements.

• Department may charge a nominal fee to cover printing and mailing costs for the seal.

• The bill amends existing statute by replacing references from 'subsection' to 'paragraph' to accommodate the addition of the new civics seal paragraph.