House Bill 26-030

This bill requires all students enrolled in grades six through twelve in public schools to complete a minimum of seven full days, or fifty-six hours, of community service during each academic year. The service may be performed at any time, including weekends, school breaks, or summer months, and must be completed through approved nonprofit organizations, government programs, school initiatives, or other qualifying community activities. School districts are responsible for establishing procedures to track and verify student participation and may provide guidance on acceptable service opportunities.

The bill is intended to promote civic engagement, responsibility, and community involvement among students while providing flexibility in how and when the service requirement is fulfilled. Districts may incorporate completion of the service hours into promotion or graduation requirements and must provide reasonable accommodations or waivers for students facing hardship or disability. By standardizing a statewide expectation for student volunteerism, the measure aims to strengthen communities while enhancing students’ educational experience beyond the classroom.