At Civic Spirit, we believe strongly in close reading of primary source documents and in using text as a springboard for discussion. We have created a library of resources that teachers can use to frame discussions about significant civic dates in American history. We hope these sources will be useful for you in the classroom. …
Want to be inspired? Learn about the impressive projects of previous Civic Spirit Student Delegates. 2018-2019 2019-2020 2020-2021 2021-2022 “It was absolutely amazing. I got to learn about how being brought up in certain cultures impacts political/societal beliefs within individuals and got to share my opinions with others.” “Always listen. Be patient, be respectful, and …
Civic Spirit is excited to introduce Student Alumni Internships — a new opportunity for students who have previously participated in Civic Spirit programming. We are seeking energetic and passionate high school seniors or graduates eager to enhance their development as a professional and contribute towards the mission of Civic Spirit to educate, inspire, and empower schools across faith traditions …
During the COVID school year of 2021-2021, 4th-grade Humanities teacher Hilary Davis decided to get creative using music, poetry, and the arts to discuss difficult and triumphant moments of American history related to contemporary issues of race and Black Americans. In partnership with Civic Spirit Director of Education, Tiphanie Shoemaker, Ms. Davis introduced a new …
At De La Salle Academy (DLSA), a middle school in New York City, all incoming 6th grade students are required to take a course called “Public Speaking and Debate,” in which the students learn key elements of traditional debate. But after DLSA teacher and Civic Spirit Scholar Mr. Wilson Martinez participated in a day-long training …
The Honors College at Yeshiva University High School for Boys hosts three or four events a semester, often with a ‘civic spirit’ theme. In 2019, one of these events included a book discussion on “The Soul of the First Amendment.” On a more ongoing basis, the Honors College introduced lunchtime debates, exploring constitutional parameters related …
Many Civic Spirit Educators have incorporated new civic-related content into existing required courses or electives or introduced new classes inspired by their learning and study within the Educators Cohort program. See the various syllabi Civic Spirit teachers have created over the years. William Reusch at Shalhevet High School introduced a new course called “Advanced Studies …
In the Spring of 2019, Audi Hecht, former chair of the history department at Yeshiva University High School for Girls (Central) launched and taught a Civic Spirit elective she created and designed. As a culminating project, the students delivered to the entire school a Civic Arts Performance dedicated to fostering a sense of belonging. In …
On February 4th, 2021, the Civic Spirit Student Delegates joined virtually for their Kick-Off event. These students represent the dynamic demographic landscape of America. Putting aside their differences, they learned to work together, forged genuine relationships, and rolled up their sleeves to do important civic work. From February-June, the Delegates have been immersed in a …
In partnership with student leaders from YVote and Vote By Design, Civic Spirit curated and hosted an immersive, non-partisan, digital learning experience for 200 high schoolers across eight faith-based private schools. This session promoted democratic fluency, agency, and civic engagement among next generation voters. Students first explored the official job of the U.S. President, defining …