Californians support civics education, but not above other aspects of school, according to a new report

Civic engagement is on a lot of Californians’ minds as thousands protested in recent weeks. Most also say kids should learn how to be engaged citizens in school, according to a new report. 

The non-partisan Public Policy Institute of California released the report earlier this month. It found about two-thirds of adults in the state say schools should prioritize preparing students to be engaged citizens. 

But they also named basic schoolwork, life skills and college prep as more important.

USC Center for Inclusive Democracy Director Mindy Romero said students across the state don’t get the same civics education. 

“It's inconsistent and it's going to be more likely to be in communities that are already more likely to be civically engaged or more likely to vote,” she said.

Romero added that excludes many communities of color. 

Democrats supported strong civics education more often than Republicans in the survey — 72% said it should be a priority, compared to 57% of Republicans. 

The report also asked respondents about specific civics topics. 

It showed residents generally agree that elementary, middle and high school students should learn about the Constitution, voter registration and separating reliable information from disinformation. 

Those all garnered over 85% support. 

Seventy-seven percent of respondents were in favor of community service outside the classroom, but with less enthusiasm – most called it “somewhat important.”

Romero said these aspects of civics should balance each other out. 

“We can't just be educated and informed. We can't just know about our constitution, although [that is] very important,” she said. “A robust, stable, enduring, and representative democracy requires that people are actually participating, and I would argue beyond voting.”

She added many people aren’t able to be civically engaged through volunteer work or contact with local leaders. That’s especially true for those juggling multiple jobs or other responsibilities. 

Black Californians called community service “very important” at a higher rate than other ethnic groups – 41% compared to 31% of all adults.