CIVIC EDUCATION MEDIA KIT Sample Press Release
The implementation of a successful civic learning initiative relies on the support and involvement of many different stakeholders. A key aspect of garnering community support lies in promotion. As previously noted, organizations that promote service-learning, project-based learning, youth activism, and other causes parallel to civic engagement can be helpful allies when promoting and enacting a civic learning initiative.
This press release is an example that can be tailored to fit individual state initiative needs DATE
Tools for Promotion
• A press release announcing the start or completion of a civic education initiative
• Social media (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook) posts— either from the professional accounts of stake holders and initiative-leaders, or from accounts created specifically for the civic education initiative being implemented • Public events that allow state leaders to speak to this issue
Key Talking Points for Civic Education Promotion This toolkit provides you with the information you need to promote civic education and its benefits. Here are a few key talking points to synthesize the importance of civic education:
(INSERT NAME) Works with CSG and NCLCE to Improve Civic Education Initiatives, or, (CREATES YOUR INITIATIVE) in (INSERT STATE)
CITY, STATE—(INSERT NAME AND TITLE) is working with the National Center for Learning and Civic Engagement (NCLCE), a center within Education Commission of the States (ECS), and the Council of State Governments (CSG) to improve civic learning in (INSERT STATE). According to research gathered by NCLCE and CSG, the state of civic education is alarming in the U.S. Experts suggest that improving civic education initiatives —both in the classroom and out— can lead to an increased sense of political efficacy and knowledge for students. Encouraging students to become involved with the political process in turn leads to healthier communities and an informed electorate.
(INSERT NAME) has commissioned a taskforce designed to research an initiative to bolster civic learning and education in (INSERT STATE). The taskforce is being created using the civic education toolkit prepared by NCLCE and CSG. The team will consist of stakeholders from within all sectors of the community, and it will be tasked with formulating a plan specifically tailored to target civic education in (INSERT STATE).
• Civic learning and engagement can lead to broad social and community benefits · Civic education has been shown to narrow the achievement gap
· Civic education can lead to a more inclusive democracy, which in turn can increase equity across many realms
(INSERT YOUR QUOTE ABOUT THE PROJECT.)
· Increased citizen input can result in more respon sive and improved policy decisions · Civic learning can lead to more engaged and innovative community members • A commitment to civic learning and engagement can help states meet part of the goals set forth by ESSA. • Several states have seen positive results and an increase in awareness and commitment to civic learning following statewide civic learning initiatives or commissions. It can be helpful to point to other states’ efforts (Section V) when promoting an initiative.
state civic education toolkit | 2017
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