District staff outline K–12 civics curriculum, trainings and gaps in implementation

Seattle Public Schools staff told the board that civics education is a K–12 priority and described curriculum resources, statewide partnership materials and classroom-based assessments required under state guidance.

Acting Superintendent Fred Podesta framed civics as "a civic asset that is important to everyone" and said the district seeks to align its civics work with broader life-ready goals. Assistant Superintendent Dr. Strauski and Kathleen Vasquez described resources for teachers, K–5 civics units developed during the pandemic and state-aligned mock-election and Temperance Day toolkits provided by the Washington Secretary of State and OSPI.

Why it matters: Board members said civics instruction prepares students to participate in community life and democracy. Directors also sought assurance that statutorily required elements—especially the "Since Time…