This assignment, which accounts for 10% of the final grade, encourages students to connect classroom learning with real-world civic involvement, fostering a deeper understanding of societal structures and their role as active citizens.

 By engaging in hands-on experiences, students will develop critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills while gaining insight into civic participation's impact. This assignment enhances their awareness of social issues and empowers them to contribute meaningfully to their communities, reinforcing the value of civic responsibility and lifelong engagement.

• Having an official (judge, court clerk, council member, or school board official) sign your form AND

• Submit a photo of the agenda or an attendance log if available.

• Take a picture (or have one taken of you at each meeting you attend)

Verification Form

Be sure to EXPAND and EXPLAIN your project and experience by linking and including artifacts (pictures/videos).

Please refer to the REFLECTION tab in each template for guiding questions and helpful information. Make sure to link your reflection or complete it directly on the document. Points will be deducted if the file cannot be opened.

1. Writing a Letter to a Local Official

   • Identify a local issue that matters to you.

   • Research and write a well-supported letter to a local official (mayor, school board member, state representative, etc.).

   • Explain the issue, provide evidence, and propose a solution.

2. Digital Activism / Social Media Campaign

   • Create a social media campaign that raises awareness about an important civic issue.

   • Research statistics, laws, or historical context related to your cause.

   • Develop posts, hashtags, graphics, and engagement strategies.

   • Monitor and analyze the impact of your campaign.

3. Making a Public Service Announcement (PSA)

   • Create a short video or poster campaign to educate the public about a social or political issue.
     Your PSA should be informative, persuasive, and backed by research.

   • Cite credible sources related to the issue you’re addressing.

4. Attend a Civic Event

   • Participate in a town hall meeting or community event related to civic issues.

   • Research the cause behind the event and why people are advocating for it.

   • Observe the event, take notes, and reflect on its impact.

5. Speaking at a Local Event or Government Forum

   • Prepare a speech and present your viewpoint at a city council meeting, school board meeting, or community forum.

   • Research the issue thoroughly, including policies, statistics, or historical background.

   • Engage in discussion, present facts, and advocate for a cause.

6. Organizing an Event or Club

   • Plan and execute a civic engagement event or start a club focused on a community issue.

   • Research similar initiatives or organizations to guide your work.

   • Recruit members, create a plan, and reflect on leadership and impact.

Organizations List

Time Log/Evaluation Sheet

1. Courtroom Hearing/Trial (Courtroom Notes)

   • Observe a local courtroom session (criminal, civil, or family court).

   • Take note of the roles of the judge, lawyers, defendant, and any legal proceedings.

   • Westminster Court

   • Santa Ana Court

2. City Council Meeting (City Counsel Notes)

   • Attend a city council meeting where elected officials discuss and vote on local policies.

   • Pay attention to the debated issues, public comments, and how decisions are made.

   • Garden Grove City Council Meetings

   • Stanton City Council Meetings

   • Westminister City Council Meetings

3. School Board Meeting (School Board Meeting Notes)

   • Attend a school board meeting where members discuss school policies, budgets, and other educational matters.
     Note how board members interact, the public’s role, and significant decisions.

   • GGUSD School Board Meeting

   • GGUSD School Board Dates

Be sure to EXPAND and EXPLAIN your project and experience by linking and including artifacts (pictures/videos).

Please refer to the REFLECTION tab in each template for guiding questions and helpful information. Make sure to link your reflection or complete it directly on the document. Points will be deducted if the file cannot be opened.

School Bathrooms