The Civic Education Center (CEC) is proud to announce the impact of its 2025–2026 programs, which engaged more than 530 students, educators, administrators, and community partners through civic learning, leadership development, civil dialogue, educator professional development, and State Seal of Civic Engagement initiatives. Throughout the school year, CEC provided opportunities for students to move beyond learning about civic engagement and into practicing it. Through the Ci

From the Classroom to the National Stage The Civic Education Center is proud to recognize Youth Service Council President Damian M. for a remarkable year of achievement, leadership, and service. When Damian first joined the Civic Education Center three years ago, he was a quiet and reserved student who rarely sought the spotlight. Through participation in the Youth Service Council, civic learning experiences, civil dialogue programs, leadership development opportunities, and

Across California, educators continue working to address one of the most persistent challenges facing schools today: chronic absenteeism. School districts have invested significant time and resources into attendance campaigns, family outreach, wellness initiatives, transportation solutions, and student support services. These efforts have helped improve attendance since the height of the pandemic, yet many schools continue searching for strategies that address a deeper questi

For many students, math class can sometimes feel disconnected from the real world. Equations, graphs, statistics, and formulas often seem isolated from the issues students care about in their communities. But across California, educators are beginning to discover something powerful: math can become one of the strongest tools for civic engagement. Through intentional project-based learning and community-connected instruction, math classrooms can help students not only strength

Environmental education and civic engagement are no longer just enrichment programs — they are becoming survival skills for democracy and community resilience. For years, environmental education was treated as “science class” and civic engagement was treated as “government class.” But today, the two are deeply connected in ways that directly affect young people’s future, mental health, local communities, and even the stability of society itself. Here are some deeper angles an

In 2026, the United States will mark a historic milestone: America 250 , the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. More than a birthday celebration, America 250 is a nationwide opportunity to reflect on who we are as a people, how far we’ve come, and—most importantly—where we are going together. At its core, America 250 commemorates the ideals that sparked the nation’s founding: liberty, equality, civic responsibility, and the ongoing pursuit o

On October 25–26, fifty students from 14 Fresno County schools gathered at Wonder Valley Ranch Resort for the annual Fresno County Youth Summit , hosted by the Civic Education Center . The two-day event brought together a diverse group of young leaders to explore civic engagement, dialogue, and the meaning of community through interactive workshops, keynote speakers, and outdoor team-building challenges. Building the Beloved Community The summit opened with an inspiring keyno

We are proud to share that Civic Education Center Executive Director and Cofounder, Stephen Morris, EdD, has been selected as one of the...

The Civic Education Center (CEC) prepares the next generation to meet the challenges they face. We empower authentic youth voice through...

Fresno, CA – The red carpet was rolled out, the spotlight was on, and the energy was electric as students from across Fresno County took...

You can order "Civic Intelligence - Empowering America's Youth" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3TjwczR

You can order "Civic Intelligence - Empowering America's Youth" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3TjwczR

Fireworks are going off all around me. It's the 4th of July! As I reflect upon this holiday, I wonder how many appreciate the...

by John Minkler

The VUSD Leadership Summit was a game-changer! Our student leaders got to connect with inspiring non-profits, paving the way for positive...

Fresno County youth face an uncertain future. We need their voices to guide us | Opinion Read the entire story at:...

Join us for a life-changing experience at the Fresno County Youth Summit hosted by the Civic Education Center and Fresno County...

State Seal of Civic Engagement is a gold seal placed on the diploma or transcript, that recognizes high school graduates who have...

As a Youth Champion you will get to work with young people and community leaders. You will help lead civic projects, activities and...