Senate Bill 748 would require North Carolina public schools to include instruction in critical thinking as part of the standard course of study for kindergarten through fifth grade. The bill states that elementary students should be taught to evaluate information rather than simply memorize it, and it directs that this instruction be incorporated into the public school curriculum statewide.
The measure is set to take effect when it becomes law and would apply beginning with the 2025-2026 school year. In practical terms, it would add a new statutory requirement to the state’s education standards under Chapter 115C, specifically by creating a new section in the laws governing the standard course of study for public schools.
Impact
The bill would amend Chapter 115C of the North Carolina General Statutes by adding a new provision requiring critical thinking instruction in grades K-5. It would affect the State Board of Education’s standard course of study and local public school implementation, but it does not specify a particular curriculum, testing requirement, or funding mechanism. The primary parties affected would be public elementary schools, teachers, curriculum developers, and students in kindergarten through fifth grade.
Sentiment
Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee discussion or votes, the available record suggests a straightforward and generally positive policy goal centered on improving elementary education. The bill’s title and language frame the proposal as an educational enhancement rather than a controversial mandate. However, because no transcripts or vote history are provided, there is no documented evidence of broader support or opposition in committee or on the floor.
Contention
No specific points of contention are documented in the available materials. Potential areas of debate, if the bill were discussed, could include how critical thinking would be defined, whether it would require new instructional materials or teacher training, and how schools would fit the requirement into existing standards. The record provided does not identify any legislators, educators, or stakeholders taking a position for or against the bill.
Creates and modifies provisions relating to elementary and secondary education and establishes the "Student Screen-Time Standards Act", "Framework on Classroom Use of Screens Council", "Media Literacy and Critical Thinking Act", and "Missouri Integrated Safe Driving Program"