11. Civics

Theodore Roosevelt described the responsibilities of American citizens best, 

"the first requisite of a good citizen in this republic of ours is that he shall be able and willing to pull his weight". 

This quote accurately represents the standard that American citizens are held to, and their civic duty to vote, obey federal, state, and local laws, as well as attending jury duty. While being an American citizen accompanies these civic responsibilities, the U.S. Constitution provides American citizens with protection by the government, ensuring freedom, protection, and legal rights. The purpose of civil duties is to uphold the democratic values demonstrated in the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

The patriotic symbolism behind civic rights/duties/responsibilities, demonstrate the foundation of a successful democracy, to build a balance between freedom and allegiance. 

Although civics provide us with freedoms and protection we take for granted everyday, it has become a lost ideal in American society.

To increase citizenship engagement of civic duty, a school in Florida have begun to inject patriotism into civics class at schools. 

On October 21, the State Board of Education in Florida approved a new rule aimed at shaping civic education in schools. 

This new rule will allow teachers to make patriotism a fundamental part of the curriculum. For example, students will be expected to have a full understanding of the nation's founding documents, as well as "instilling patriotic values in schoolchildren". 

The intention behind this new rule is to teach and encourage children to become "upright and desirable citizens". 

To achieve this standard, students will also learn about respect towards

“the military, elected officials, civic leaders, public servants, and all those who have defended the blessings of liberty in pursuit of the common good, even at personal risk.”

Florida is making strides in the education system, in an effort to establish patriotic ideals and values for students to gain a deep respect for America, and the privileges we receive as citizens.