civicseal headerThe California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE) is a seal to be placed on the diplomas of graduating California high school students who, according to the California Department of Education, have demonstrated “excellence in civics education and participation, and an understanding of the United States Constitution, the California Constitution, and the democratic system of government.”

Criteria

The five criteria presented below are meant to provide a framework for making determinations of student qualifications required to earn the SSCE.  

1.  Engagement

Be engaged in academic work in a productive way.

2. Understanding

Demonstrate a competent understanding of United States and California constitutions; functions and governance of local governments; tribal government structures and organizations; the role of the citizen in a constitutional democracy; and democratic principles, concepts, and processes.


CRF Resources

Click here for balanced, interactive, and enriching lessons to supplement learning in U.S. history, world history, and U.S. government courses, as well as current civic issues, to meet Criteria 1 and 2. 

 

 

3. Participation

Participate in one or more informed civic engagement project(s) that address real-world problems and require students to identify and inquire into civic needs or problems, consider varied responses, take action, and reflect on efforts.


CRF Resources

Click here for access to three core lessons to get your students active in planning and executing their civic engagement projects to meet Criteria 3. 

 

4. Demonstration

Demonstrate civic knowledge, skills, and dispositions through self-reflection.


CRF Resources

Through Civic Action Project (CAP), students have opportunities to reflect on their civic learning with the CAP Project Report, present their civic actions in multimedia formats, and share their projects in culminating activities to inform and educate others in their community to meet Criteria 4. 

 

 

5. Character Traits

Exhibit character traits that reflect civic-mindedness and a commitment to positively impact the classroom, school, community and/or society.


CRF Resources

Students can exhibit the character traits of civic-mindedness when they demonstrate their civic dispositions in Criteria 4. Students will document their character traits, including concern for the public good, having a sense of civic duty, and appreciation of multiple perspectives, through writing, video, audio, graphics, and digital presentations.


Earning the Seal

Local school districts are encouraged to create specific, local criteria based on the state’s five criteria. Check with your district or county superintendent’s office on local criteria and deadlines for submitting proof of eligibility of students. 

Professional Development


Download Slide Deck

 

Contacts

Damon Huss (damon@crf-usa.org

Gregorio Medina (gregorio@crf-usa.org)

Laura Wesley (laura@crf-usa.org)

 

 

 

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