Why We Need Better Civic Education In Schools

Growing up, I never received a formal civic education in school. My parents, both of whom are first-generation immigrants and firm believers in the importance of youth civic engagement, made sure to close this gap by filling our house with books, newspapers, and open discussions about policy issues in the U.S. I've been lucky to grow up with a firm understanding and belief in the power of my voice, especially in the democratic process.

However, I watched many of my peers lose interest in current events, politics, and the issues affecting our youth. The pandemic made this problem worse, which led to significant learning losses, including learning around civic engagement. In fact, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) test results this year, only 22% of eighth graders were proficient in civic engagement topics, a dip from 24% back in 2018. Furthermore, only 49% of the participants reported having a civic engagement and government class.

One manifestation of this lack of education can be a loss of national identity. A January survey by Morning Consult revealed significant declines in patriotism and pride in being American among younger generations.

Now more than ever, it is essential that education departments prioritize multidisciplinary approaches to teaching civic education and engagement. This must go beyond investment in civic education programs and classes (although that would, undoubtedly, be helpful); instead, it requires curriculums that proactively address how civic education and policy affect society.

Schools can best prepare students to engage with civic information by educating students in media literacy. As a teenager, I get most of my current event information through print and digital media and news sites. Reliable reporting and journalism remain crucial in my understanding of the world.

Another way that schools can strengthen civic engagement is through youth activism programs, where students can use their voices to make changes in their local communities. Even something as simple as hosting voting drives to increase voter registration and turnout can be beneficial. There are many different ways that schools can help with this issue, and a commitment to these strategies can go a long way in increasing civic engagement.

Especially with the 2024 election coming up, young people must get the civic education experience they deserve and speak out about policies affecting them. And plenty of policies have recently affected us and our broader education. Calls to ban books have been echoed nationwide and implemented all too often. Some states have passed legislation making it more difficult for schools to teach critical race theory, sex education, and even certain parts of U.S. history. Just a month ago, right before students entered the classroom, the Florida State Education Department effectively banned AP Psychology by prohibiting its gender and sexuality content.

I will be a first-time voter in the 2024 presidential election, and I hope that I will be able to see other members of my generation who are of age at the polls, informed about current issues, and filling out ballots with confidence.