Guardian of Democracy: The Civic Mission of Schools

To improve civic literacy, skills, and engagement, this report proposes that schools adopt six proven practices in civic learning, ranging from high-quality classroom instruction to several innovative pedagogies and activities outside of formal classes. Additionally, two important policy areas are spotlighted: assessment of civic learning and the role of teacher professional development. The report also lays out an agenda for a wide range of stakeholders including policymakers at the federal, state, and local levels; academics and researchers; funders; the media; and parents. Like the first Civic Mission of Schools report, this report reminds its readers that the country shortchanges the civic mission of its schools at its peril.