Democrat lawmakers are making a new effort to spread their climate change agenda in the state's public schools.

Senate Bill 14, proposed by State Sen. Chris Hanson, aims to introduce what the bill calls "climate literacy" into the curriculum. However, critics argue that this move is just another example of liberal Democrats pushing an agenda-driven curriculum while neglecting important subjects like American history, personal finance, and government.

PRIME SPONSORS

• Sen. Chris Hansen

• Rep. Barbara McLachlan

The bill would allow Colorado districts to award a special foil seal of "climate literacy" to high school diplomas who have “studied or gained skills” related to the environment. Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to meet the demand for climate education and to prepare students for "green jobs" or careers in managing Colorado's natural resources.

To earn the Colorado climate diploma seal, students would need to complete designated coursework or demonstrate certain skills determined by the districts and complete a project.

State Sen. Hanson believes that this seal will provide students with the necessary skills for jobs that are expected to grow by 10% in the next five years, such as installing solar panels or working with renewable energy systems.

However, not everyone is enthusiastic about this proposed legislation. State Sen. Paul Lundeen, a Monument Republican, voted against the bill, expressing concerns that it would divert attention from the core mission of education, which is to ensure proficiency in English, math, and science.

READ MORE:

• COLORADO'S 'GREEN AGENDA' THREATENS EVERYDAY COLORADANS

• GOVERNOR POLIS' CLIMATE PREPAREDNESS ROADMAP: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF EXPENSIVE LEGISLATION

• BIDEN ADMINISTRATION SUPPORTS CLIMATE REPARATIONS

• COLORADO GOVERNOR JARED POLIS UNDER FIRE FOR IGNORING RURAL AREAS DURING FREEZING TEMPERATURES

Critics argue that this push for climate literacy comes at the expense of other essential subjects. They point out that many Colorado Democrats reject the teaching of American history and economic literacy in public schools. By prioritizing a climate change agenda, they are neglecting important aspects of education that are essential for students' future success.

The bill has cleared its first hurdle with a party-line 4-3 vote in the Senate Education Committee.