California State Seal of Civic Engagement
The State Seal of Civic Engagement in California & SLUSD
The California State Seal of Civic Engagement is a seal affixed to graduating seniors' transcripts that signifies civic learning through academics and community engagement. Civic learning promotes the ideals of knowledge, participation in civic and democratic processes, and addressing public problems to strengthen communities. The SSCE elevates civic engagement as a goal for California graduates. In SLUSD, we believe that Civic learning opportunities should be provided to students at every grade level and integrated into the curriculum. We pride ourselves on supporting students who are ready for this call: critical thinkers and communicators with healthy minds and bodies, who demonstrate ethical and cultural leadership in collaboration with each other and their communities. We want to see our students understand how many societies work so they can practice participating and taking informed civic action themselves.
State Seal of Civic Engagement Student Criteria
Be engaged in academic work in a productive way
Demonstrate a competent understanding of U.S. and California constitutions; functions and governance of local governments; tribal government structures and organizations; the role of the citizen in a constitutional democracy; and democratic principles, concepts, and processes;
Participate in one or more informed civic engagement project(s) that address real-world problems and require students to identify and inquire into civic needs or problems, consider varied responses, take action, and reflect on efforts;
Demonstrate civic knowledge, skills, and dispositions through self-reflection; and
Exhibit character traits that reflect civic-mindedness and a commitment to positively impact the classroom, school, community, and/or society.
See the California Department of Education (https://www.cde.ca.gov/pd/ca/hs/hssstateseal.asp) for additional implementation guidance for each of the criteria.
How to meet Criteria 1 & 2
Pass the required History/Social Studies courses to graduate (World History, US History, American Government, Economics)
Be on track to graduate
How to meet Criteria 3
Participation in informed civic engagement activities ( i.e. individual and collective actions designed to identify and address issues of public concern) may take many forms. Students may choose to spearhead new initiatives or projects. Alternatively, students may also choose to participate in projects that improve upon a pre-existing opportunity.
Check out this list of example activities you can include in your application. Remember, this list doesn't cover everything! If your participation addresses real-world problems related to the rights and responsibilities of our community, then you can include it!
Attending City Council, School Board, or Town Hall meetings
Serving in civic internships
Participating in community or neighborhood organizations
Supporting election activities
Participating in some acts of civil action, such as a Rally, Protest, Model UN, Mock Trial competition, Youth Assembly, Debate
School-based projects that address civic issues
Participating in social media campaigns that address civic issues
Participating in community service events
How to meet Criteria 4
A capstone project or portfolio with self-reflection on project activities, including successes and challenges.
A written essay explaining what actions were taken; why these actions were chosen; what civic skills, competencies, and knowledge were gained by your actions; how your actions impacted the community; and how your actions may inspire future civic engagement for yourself and others.
How to meet Criteria 5
Recommendation from a teacher, mentor, government official, or non-familial community member.
Why You Should Apply for the State Seal of Civic Engagement
You're the kind of person who cares for your community, knows how people can participate in the community, and has shown your knowledge and care through action of your own. YOU DESERVE RECOGNITION!
That recognition will go a long way: employers and colleges want to hire and admit folks who care! The State Seal is an award that you can point to as evidence of your knowledge, your participation, and your care for the community.
Did we mention the bling? When you meet the requirements, you'll receive:
an official seal affixed to your diploma
a note on your transcript saying you earned the seal
a State Seal cord to wear at your high school graduation!
Application available now:
Click here to apply. Deadline is April 30, 2024