A state law signed by Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner has elevated civics to a high school graduation requirement.
Public schools are now required to offer two years of social studies, including at least one year of U.S. history or a combination of U.S. history and American government.
They also must teach American patriotism and principles of representative government, as well as proper use of the American flag.
Many school districts across Illinois will need to prepare to offer the kind of civics instruction required in the state's new law.
About 60% of high schools already require a civics or government course.
