Civic Roots: Understanding Local Government & Community Action
An 8-Week Experiential Civics Journey for Young People Ages 11–17
Wednesdays: September 9th through October 28th
1pm to 3pm
How does our neighborhood shape the people who live in it?
Civic Roots takes civics out of textbooks and into the streets, meeting halls, and community spaces where young people can witness democracy in action. Over eight weeks, students will map their neighborhoods, meet local leaders, practice empathy through service, and leave with real-world skills for being active, engaged citizens.
This isn't a traditional classroom experience. Every session balances discussion and discovery—roughly half conversation, half hands-on activity—so learning stays grounded in real life, not just theory.
Who This Is For
Ages 11–17, mixed groups welcome (we intentionally pair older and younger students as peer mentors)
Learners who thrive with movement, collaboration, and purpose-driven work
Families seeking meaningful civic engagement alongside academic growth
(We welcome all learning styles. Activities are designed to honor different ways of processing, engaging, and contributing. We will be walking around Frederick to make observations as the weather permits.)
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this journey, students will be able to:
🏛️ Map the system—Understand how local government is structured and whose job handles what 📍 Read their city—See how neighborhood layout affects access, opportunity, and belonging for residents and visitors 🗣️ Meet decision-makers—Hold respectful conversations with elected officials and community leaders ❤️ Practice empathy firsthand—Identify community needs and respond through tangible acts of care 🌱 Steward the environment—Connect civic responsibility to environmental health ✊ Speak up for change—Build foundational advocacy skills and explore voting beyond election day