The Importance of a Civics Education for Marginalized Students and Students of Color
Why the Study of Civics Should Be a Priority in Addressing Racial Inequity in Education
One of the hardest things to do as an educator is making material relevant and accessible to young students. As a middle school social studies teacher, I am often posed with the challenge of making American history meaningful for 14-year old who often prefer discussing sneakers and Fortnite to the Great Depression or Vietnam.
Luckily, or unluckily, the study of Civics in social studies has never been more topical to the world around my students than in the environment of the political and social turmoil of the year 2020.
In just the last year, students could follow a presidential impeachment, study the impact of the racially-charged criminal justice system, and learn about civil protests — all from ongoing current events.
Middle school students are particularly responsive to material that they feel is important, provides them with a level of maturity or adulthood, and explains the world around them. From the structure of government, the importance of the vote, and the functions of political parties to the basics of economics and the legal system, a well-rounded Civics curriculum…
