History, Government and Social Studies

History, Government, and Social Studies (HGSS) standards and benchmarks provide a framework for assisting History, Government, and Social Studies educators in Kansas. This section offers resources and guidance for educators as they support student success and prepare learners for active citizenship.

HGSS Standards

History, Government, and Social Studies (HGSS) Standards focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and understanding how history, government, geography, and economics shape our world. Students learn to analyze choices and consequences, apply higher-order thinking, and participate actively in their communities. The HGSS Standards provide a framework for curriculum, instruction, and assessment across all grade levels.

HGSS Classroom Based Assessment

Kansas Social Studies Classroom-Based Assessments (CBAs) are designed to measure student understanding of the HGSS standards, benchmarks and skills. CBAs provide Kansas school districts, classroom educators, and students the opportunity to develop their own assessments that best support community decisions concerning content, sources and product choices.

HGSS Graduation Requirements

All public school students are required to meet statewide History, Government, and Social Studies (HGSS) graduation requirements to earn a diploma.

Class of 2026 and 2027

Three units of history and government, which shall include world history; United States history; United States government, including the Constitution of the United States; concepts of economics and geography

Class of 2028 and beyond

Three units of history and government, which shall include world history; United States history; United States government, including the Constitution of the United States; concepts of economics and geography.

For more information about Graduation please visit the Graduation Requirement webpage.

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