The Orange County Department of Education, in partnership with the San Diego County Office of Education, is inviting educators to participate in a series of webinars that will promote civic learning and engagement.
You might remember that back in September 2020, the State Board of Education approved criteria for students to earn a new Seal of Civic Engagement, an incentive aimed at encouraging active and ongoing citizenship. To earn the seal, students must demonstrate excellence in civic learning, participation in civics-related projects, contributions to their community, and an understanding of the U.S. Constitution, the state Constitution, and the American democratic system.
Currently, many Orange County districts are engaged in developing local criteria, identifying pathways, and designing curricula for students to earn the seal in their district. The new series of webinars is designed for educators from all levels — elementary, middle and high school — to brainstorm onramps to civic learning even before students enter high school.
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Below is a list of the upcoming webinars and links to register.
- Thursday, Jan. 28 | 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. | Register here
Introducing the State Seal of Civic Engagement
School site and district leaders will learn about the State Seal of Civic Engagement, developing local criteria, and the process for ordering seals. Representatives from the CDE will share recent updates and best practices.
- Tuesday, Mar. 2 | 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Register here
Region 9’s State Seal of Civic Engagement Advisory Group
In this webinar, participants will share ideas about local criteria and discuss resources for implementation.
- Thursday, Apr. 22 | 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Register here
Celebrating Democracy in the OC: Articulating Civic Engagement K-12
Districts and schools will share their successes at a virtual Civic Learning Partnership event, presented by OCDE. More information on this event is forthcoming.
In addition to the State Seal of Civic Engagement, schools can apply for and earn Civic Learning Awards. Applications are open and available until Feb. 12, 2021.
For questions, technical expertise or training, please contact OCDE History/Social Sciences/Civics Coordinator Marika Manos at mmanos@ocde.us.
If you have a story of teachers and/or schools showcasing best practices in civic engagement and would like to be featured in the upcoming Civic Learning Partnership event, please fill out this form.