Power of Democracy

The strength of our democratic institutions relies on the public’s understanding of those institutions. Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye

Having had the chance to teach a civics class, and from my time working with students in the Legislature, I’m a huge supporter of engaging students in civics early, which helps to engage them for life. Tony Thurmond, State Superintendent of Public Instruction

A quality civics education must be a part of every child’s schooling to teach them how to develop good character and be a good citizen. Dave Gordon, Superintendent, Sacramento County

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2019-2020 Civic Learning Award application is now open! Easy to apply online, all California public schools welcome.

The only way we can meet the many challenges currently facing California and the nation is with a citizenry that understands and participates in all aspects of civic life. Join us in shining a light on the need for quality civic education and engagement to ensure that these important issues are ultimately part of meaningful state policy changes.

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Education Dive
September 4, 2019

Report: Students ready for complex civic conversations, nuanced instruction

An analysis of 11,000 letters to the president from 2016 suggests students are more prepared to be civically engaged than previously thought.

EdSurge
July 30, 2019

This Workforce Partnership Trains Tech Talent. Can It Boost Civic Engagement Too?

More than 40 high school students from across the San Francisco Bay Area connect with regional employers for work-based projects and internships.

CBS19
July 20, 2019

Seeking proposal on teaching of history and civics

Educators, national leaders, researchers and others are being offered a chance to help assess how American history, civics and government are taught. The National Endowment for the Humanities and the U.S. Department of Education are offering a special funding opportunity to address how those topics are taught in K-12 education.

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Speaking Up to Create Change

By Marley Fortin, CIVITAS Academy student, Power of Democracy Steering Committee Member

As an incoming freshman, I knew that Civitas, the political science academy at my high school, was going to be a rigorous but rewarding program. Though at the time I could barely explain the difference between the House and the Senate, I looked forward to learning deeply about politics, policy, and theory over five semesters […]
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Secondary School Principal of the Year Reflects on the Importance of Civic Learning

By Mark Anderson, Principal of Marshall Fundamental Secondary, Pasadena, CA

As educational leaders, our plate is full. Priority is given to areas measured on the California School Dashboard. Unfortunately, one area that can get lost in the maelstrom of our professional lives is the need to place an emphasis and value on civic learning. Civic learning helps students access the world around them According to […]
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Civic Learning Award at Camarillo High School: Impressions of a Presiding Justice

By Hon. Arthur Gilbert, Presiding Justice of Division Six, Second District Court of Appeal

Recently I presented the Civic Learning Award to Camarillo High School, my second time to participate in the special program established by Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson. I have been told that a visit from a judge is part of the prize for the school. But from my perspective, I […]
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Watch how California high school students benefit from engaging civic learning programs that equip, empower, and encourage them to grow into active citizens. The Power of Democracy Steering Committee is working to support robust civic learning experiences for all California students.

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