2022 Theme: The Economics of Being a Citizen

Student Delegates Program

Collaborating across difference.

Building Civic Leaders

Throughout the program, the Delegates forge strong relationships, learn to problem-solve, and gain valuable experience as responsible civic participants and leaders in their communities.

A select group of high school students from Civic Spirit schools engage in a semester-long program of learning, discussion, research, and design of a Capstone project.

Program Components

Phase 1

Build Community and Knowledge

Delegates will:

Participate in dialogue and community building; Study primary sources and pivotal texts illuminating different perspectives of the central topic; Interview content experts and attend virtual or in-person town halls and workshops.

Phase 2

Develop Expertise and Design Solutions

Delegates will:

Continue to gather information; Identify opportunity for public awareness; Engage in script writing, filming, editing and production of a Public Service Announcement; Design strategies for digital marketing and promotion to their communities.

Phase 3

Publish, Promote, Celebrate, Reflect

Delegates will:

Finalize their public service announcement plan; Distribute their PSA across social, traditional media, and word of mouth; Write issue briefs to inform public policy; Present findings to teachers and family; Celebrate, reflect, and plan for future problem-solving!

What will students study?

This year’s Delegates will explore:

  • How does the American tax system work and what is the philosophy behind its design?
  • What is the relationship between U.S. state and federal tax structures and local economies and communities?
  • What should Americans understand about the financial responsibilities of being a citizen?

What are the details?

  • The program is entirely free and Zoom-based.
  • Applications are open to students in grades 9th – 12th from Civic Spirit schools.
  • Delegates should be prepared to participate in two (2) 90-minute virtual meetings each month. Delegates may choose to research, create, and collaborate outside of virtual meeting times as needed.

What are the benefits to students?

  • LEARN essential civic skills such as problem solving and oration.
  • DEVELOP expertise on a particular civic issue -its history, challenges, and opportunities.
  • APPLY their knowledge and skills in meaningful and “real-world” settings.
  • BUILD working relationships with people from different religious, economic, racial, political, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds.

How do students apply?

Students apply by completing THIS FORM by Nov. 30th, 2021 at 5pm EST. The form will take about 10 minutes to complete.

Who do I ask for questions?

Email Matthew Brownstein (Civic Spirit’s Director of the Delegates Program) at matthew@civicspirit.org