Project Citizen
Project Citizen is an instructional program that promotes competent and responsible participation in local and state government. The program helps young people learn how to monitor and influence public policy.
In the Project Citizen curriculum, students work cooperatively to identify a public policy problem in their community. They research the problem, evaluate alternative policies to address it, develop their own public policy proposal, and create a political action plan to enlist support for their policy.
Through this process, students develop knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential for active civic participation. They learn about state and local government, public policy formation, and the vital role citizens play in monitoring and influencing the decisions that affect their lives.
Program Components
Problem Identification
Students identify and analyze public policy problems in their community through research and investigation.
Policy Research
Research alternative policies and evaluate their effectiveness in addressing the identified problem.
Portfolio Development
Create a comprehensive portfolio documenting research, analysis, and policy proposals.
Action Plan
Develop and implement a political action plan to gain support for the proposed policy.
Public Presentation
Present findings and proposals to community members, officials, and stakeholders.
Civic Engagement
Engage with local government officials and learn to be active participants in democracy.