State Rep. Bob Peterson | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Rep. Bob Peterson | The Ohio House of Representatives
The Ohio House of Representatives has passed a resolution aimed at encouraging students from first through twelfth grade to read the Declaration of Independence during the 2025–2026 school year. The initiative is in recognition of the document’s 250th anniversary, according to State Representative Bob Peterson (R-Sabina).
House Concurrent Resolution 22 does not require schools to participate but encourages them to give students opportunities to read and study the Declaration. The goal is to help young Ohioans understand key principles that form the basis of the United States’ constitutional system.
"As we approach the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, it’s more important than ever to ensure our students understand the principles that shaped our nation,” said Peterson. “Encouraging them to read this historic document in the classroom not only honors our past—it inspires the next generation to value liberty, justice, and democracy."
The anniversary will be marked on July 4, 2026. The resolution now moves on for consideration by the Ohio Senate.
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