(HB1824)

GOVERNOR'S VETO

Pursuant to Article V, Section 6 of the Constitution of Virginia, I veto House Bill 1824, which permits the substitution of World History I or World Geography with African American History or the Advanced Placement African American Studies to satisfy history and social studies credit requirements.

A thorough, sequential study of world history is critical to preparing students for informed citizenship and global awareness. Substituting World History I or World Geography would cause students to miss key concepts essential to understanding how historical world events have shaped our modern economy, government, and international relations.

While I am supportive of expanding choices in what classes students may take to satisfy graduation requirements, we must ensure that classes that replace others are germane to the comprehensive goals of high school education standards. Currently, U.S. history, Virginia and U.S. government, and one course in either world history or geography are required for a standard diploma, and both are required for an advanced diploma. Furthermore, four electives are required for a standard diploma which allows students to choose any class that they are interested in, which can include African American History or Advanced Placement African American Studies.

Accordingly, I veto this bill.