At the May 14 School Board Meeting, Piedmont Unified School District recognized 28 students receiving the State Seal of Civic Engagement. The students participated in a civic action project in the community and met the five criteria areas defined by California to earn the seal.
The seal is an emblem that will be displayed on students’ transcripts or diplomas, awarded to those who demonstrate excellence in civic education and participation. Two students spoke of their experiences during the meeting and explained how this project fostered a newfound commitment to civic engagement.
The State Seal of Civic Engagement creates a meaningful and attainable goal for students interested in government, increasing civic engagement, and student voice in the community. This program was created by the state legislature based upon Assembly Bill 24.
California legislatures have identified the voice of students as a critical component to improving education systems and ensuring the student body supports by district decisions.
Five criteria for Seal
- Be engaged in academic work in a productive way.
- Demonstrate a competent understanding of US and California government.
- Participate in a local civic engagement project.
- Demonstrate civic knowledge and skills through self-reflection.
- Exhibit character traits that reflect civic-mindedness