August 4, 2014
Why Does Civic Learning Matter?
It is essential that the youth of today learn early on how to live in society. They must learn to speak up. They must learn to understand and appreciate the views of others. They must learn how to reach consensus and implement decisions. It is not enough for them to be lectured to; they must get hands-on experience. This is why youth civic learning for is so important to the League.
How Can We Improve Civic Learning?
We are very proud to announce timely research-based recommendations to ensure that all California K-12 students gain the knowledge, skills and values they need to succeed in college, career and civic life.
For the past year, our President has served on the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning. Many of our local Leagues have rallied their members and their communities to assess the state of civic learning in California schools, provide input at regional meetings throughout the state, and help crafting research-based recommendations.
The final report was presented in Sacramento to Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson by members of the Task Force, including our President, Helen Hutchison.
Help Implement The Recommendations
The Power of Democracy Steering Committee, appointed by the Chief Justice, will meet immediately following the presentation to begin to support the implementation of their recommendations. Follow Power of Democracy on Twitter.
Local Leagues throught the state will be essential in this grassroots effort. If you're interested in being involved, please join our Civic Education Yahoo Group. We will be sharing Op Eds, toolkits, and other resources for you to engage your community in these recommendations in the coming months.
- Join our Civic Education Yahoo Group.
Why Is This Timely?
The state’s shift to Local Control Funding Formula and implementation of Common Core State Standards offer opportunities to prioritize and improve civic learning which is shown to help students become better critical thinkers, problem solvers, communicators and collaborators – skills needed for the 21st century workplace and for engagement in civic life in a democracy.