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Civic Based Learning Program

Equipp Youth to Discover, Understand, and Lead Through Civic Action

The Civic-Based Learning Program is a comprehensive 20-lesson civic engagement curriculum that help students build skills necessary to obtain the California State Seal of Civic Engagement.

 

 It is a dynamic, real-world educational experience designed to help students uncover their civic values, understand the systems that shape their communities, and become effective, responsible change makers. Developed and led by the Civic Education Center (CEC), this program integrates classroom instruction, community exploration, and project-based learning to develop civic intelligence, youth voice, and leadership.

Equip Students - Ideas Grow

What is Included:

  • Standards-aligned curriculum with 20 lesson plans starting with Identity and ending with civic action.   Hardcopy and digital formats.

  • Digital Interactive Slides for each lesson (Nearpod/Pear Deck).  

  • Student Workbook (hardcopy and editable Pdf).

  • Teacher Guide

  • 1 year Educator Support

  • Free Registration: CEC Educator Institute (5 Teachers).

  • Free Teacher Workshop with Students (Civic Project Planning).

  • 1 Onsite Facilitation Session

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Curriculum Topics:

  • Identity and Values​​

  • Understanding Communities​​​

  • Choosing a Community Issue

  • Civil Dialogue

  • Advocacy and Civic Participation

  • Research Methods and Media Literacy

  • SMART Goals

  • Resource Mapping

  • Connections to Community experts and organizations so that they may be able to partner alongside students and schools to implement the civic project.  

  • Civic simulations and real-world scenarios

  • Executing a Civic Project

  • Presentation Skills

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Educators receive full support through:

  • Training on the CEC Curriculum, activity guide, and civic planner tools

  • On-site modeling and co-teaching of civic lessons

  • Access to community partner networks and project consultation

  • Guidance on implementing the State Seal of Civic Engagement

I want a full partnership 

Monthly Onsite Facilitation, State Seal Guidance, and Project Launch

Read More >

Lets Customize

Digital Core, Annual Coaching Support and Kickoff training and/or event

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Digital Curriculum

Digital Tools Only

Click on the button above to set up your free consultation to get your school started.

Outcomes & Impact

The Civic-Based Learning Program creates long-lasting impacts not only on student development but also on the schools and communities they serve.

 

For Students:

  • Stronger School Connection: Students become more engaged in their school environment, taking ownership of campus life and contributing to positive culture shifts.

  • Increased Civic Awareness: Youth develop a deeper understanding of how government, systems, and policies affect their lives—and how they can make a difference.

  • Empowered Youth Voice: Through guided exploration and public speaking opportunities, students build confidence and the ability to advocate for themselves and others.

  • Pathways to Leadership: Students gain experience in teamwork, leadership, and civic action—essential skills for future academic, career, and community involvement.

  • Recognition and Achievement: Students work toward completing civic action projects that meet the criteria for the California State Seal of Civic Engagement, a powerful recognition of their dedication and leadership.

 

For Schools:

  • Improved School Climate: Civic engagement promotes inclusivity, shared responsibility, and pride in the school community.

  • Support for Student Success: Project-based civic learning strengthens skills in communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and resilience—all tied to academic success.

  • Leadership Development: Educators observe student leaders emerging from unexpected places, often re-engaging students who were previously disconnected from school.

 

For Communities:

  • Youth-Driven Change: Communities benefit from student-led initiatives that directly address local issues, bringing fresh ideas, energy, and relevance to civic work.

  • Stronger Intergenerational Partnerships: The program bridges the gap between youth and adult community members, fostering dialogue and mutual understanding.

  • Sustainable Engagement: By empowering students with civic tools and experiences early on, we create a pipeline of informed, capable, and motivated future community leaders.

Curriculum and Resources

Below are both free and fee based resources that you can use in your classrooms and clubs and you work your way through the Democracy School Program 

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