Imagine a classroom where young voices are not just heard but empowered — where students discover the strength of their agency and the role they can play in shaping their communities.
The Orange County Department of Education is set to host its annual OC Civic Learning Institute, inviting K-12 teachers and administrators to deepen their understanding of civic engagement and student agency.
This year’s institute, co-presented by Dr. Marika Manos, OCDE’s history and social science manager, and Shelby Rommelfanger, the department’s advancing learning coordinator, will be held on Sept. 24 and Oct. 8 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Board Room at the Orange County Department of Education, which is located at 200 Kalmus Drive.
Teams from public, charter and private schools — along with district administrators — are encouraged to register and participate in the two-day series. This professional development opportunity reflects OCDE’s commitment to supporting all 28 local school districts in preparing Orange County students to lead the nation in college and career readiness and success.
“The Civic Learning Institute is a one-of-a-kind opportunity in Orange County to develop civic-mindedness and civic efficacy for both students and educators,” Rommelfanger said. “It is a unique and valuable opportunity to enhance the skills necessary to be active participants in our democracy, both as learners and leaders.”
Participants who attend the sessions will be prepared to apply for recognition from the California Democracy School program, civic learning awards and the State Seal for Civic Engagement for their respective campus sites and students.
They will also learn about K-8 Civic Learning Pathways. Led by OCDE and the San Diego County Office of Education, this initiative encourages elementary and middle school educators to construct opportunities for students that promote civic engagement.
“By participating in the institute, educators will gain the confidence to build positive classroom cultures, supporting students’ civil discourse and speeches, as well as facilitating research about real-world issues,” Manos said. “We’ve seen students at Pacific High School in Garden Grove address issues like bathroom cleanliness through research projects, while students at Golden View Elementary in Huntington Beach learn about stewardship and showcase projects at the campus’ annual environmental showcase.”
Educators and administrators interested in attending the OC Civic Learning Institute can register online. Registrants will be invited to return on April 24 for the annual OC Civic Learning Celebration, where the school teams and students can share the ways they engaged civically to improve their communities.