4 ways to foster civic engagement in any class

Hello colleagues, You will find a beautiful video, "Walking in Solidarity," included in Ryan Maxwell's ASCD Citizens in the Making blog. The video features how students in Portland, Maine, responded when one of their own was discriminated against. Check it out! It will definitely inspire you!

In the blog, Maxwell identifies 4 ways to foster civic engagement in any class. They include the following:

  • Take students' voices seriously.
  • Give students ownership of a local problem.
  • Channel shock, sadness and outrage into civic action.
  • Hold students accountable to their best selves.

As Maxwell challenges each of us who teach: "Citizens are not born, but made through practice that fosters their lifelong contributions to a better world. Give your students the skills and opportunity to do real work solving real problems, and they will shine."

Your thoughts on Maxwell's ideas are valuable. Please share them here.. I also welcome your stories about ways you have fostered (or could foster) civic engagement in your own practice.

Cheers, Susan Finn Miller

Moderator, Teaching & Learning CoP