Education - Maryland Civic Excellence Program - Established

HB 72 establishes the voluntary Maryland Civic Excellence Program for public schools. It requires participating school systems to award a "Seal of Civic Excellence" to students who pass Maryland's government assessment, earn A/B grades in three required social studies courses, and complete 75+ hours of community service (including 30+ focused on civic engagement). Schools may earn a "Center of Civic Excellence" designation if at least 50% of their graduating class earns the student seal. The program begins in the 2026-2027 school year, with schools required to report annually to the state education department.