The Civic Learning Award is given by the California Department of Education to public schools that promote civic learning and engage students in community service and civic activities. The award aims to inspire students to become informed and responsible citizens.
I applied for this prestiguous award, which my department chair has been vying for for many years. For the first time ever in its history, Dale received the highest honor, with the award of excellence! A California Chief Justice will visit in September to award the school a special medal, even though I might not be there to get it.
Here’s a brief excerpt from the application I wrote:
“This year’s Project-Based Learning question is focused on how we can lead healthier lives and build healthier communities, providing a foundation for a series of lessons that specifically address the needs and challenges facing our students in Anaheim. In the history department, students are actively engaged in researching local issues such as homelessness, prostitution, drugs, human trafficking, infrastructure problems, police brutality, school shootings, crime, congestion, and cost of living. Using images taken directly from Anaheim, students utilize the 5E model to develop thoughtful solutions to these issues, all with the goal of creating a better future for their community. To bring these ideas to life, students have created informative posters that raise awareness of the challenges faced by Anaheim residents, as well as letters to the mayor with suggestions for improving life in the area. In addition, Public Service Announcements have been developed to highlight key areas of need and ways to improve the quality of life in Anaheim. Some of the most innovative ideas have included the development of new applications that could easily and effectively address the needs of local residents. Overall, this project has been a valuable opportunity for students to engage in real-world problem solving, working together to find meaningful solutions to the issues impacting their community. Through their hard work and dedication, these students have demonstrated a deep commitment to creating a healthier, more vibrant, and more supportive community for everyone who calls Anaheim home.“
