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Social studies teachers across America have no shortage of conversation starters in their classrooms in 2025. From fundamental concepts like separation of powers to the complexities of federal and state government relationships, today’s political climate is a living civics lesson. Students are not only learning how government works; they are seeing it for themselves.

But this next generation of civic leaders doesn’t need to wait to engage.

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Schools are laboratories of democracy, responsible for preparing students to be active participants in society. Many school mission statements emphasize themes like citizenship, service, responsibility and engagement — all central tenets of a thriving democracy. Yet if we are to equip young people with the skills and confidence to engage meaningfully in civic life, we must ensure they have clear pathways for doing so.

One such pathway is the New York State Seal of Civic Readiness, a program that recognizes students for their civic........

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