Civic education is the foundation of a strong democracy. It equips young people with the knowledge and skills needed to actively participate in their communities and shape the future. Civic engagement is like a river that nourishes the landscape—when young people are involved, they bring fresh ideas, energy, and passion that help society flourish. These activities help them learn to navigate the complexities of public service and develop a sense of responsibility toward the well-being of their communities.
The Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) joins several public agencies who recognize the critical role that “contribution” plays in the social and emotional development of adolescents, particularly in supporting student mental health. Research highlighted by Lydia Denworth in Scientific American discusses how contributing through volunteering—whether by helping others or giving back to the community—has been shown to enhance physical and mental well-being. Encouraging students to engage in acts of service not only fosters their sense of purpose, it promotes positive mental health and contributes to their overall well-being and resilience.
By partnering with initiatives like the Elk Grove Unified School District’s (EGUSD) in the Elk Grove Civic Summer program, SCOE helps students step into the world of public service. This summer, more than 50 high school students, including five interns at SCOE, gained valuable experience in civic education and public service.
The Elk Grove Civic Summer program is a collaborative effort involving local, state, and federal partners. This five-week program is designed to introduce students to public service, instilling a sense of civic responsibility and engagement. The program’s mission is to educate and empower youth by helping them cultivate their interests, discover their passion for advocacy, and find their voice.
During the first two weeks, participants attended classroom sessions featuring guest speakers who provided insights into essential public service skills, such as effective communication, leadership, office skills, and teamwork. The students got to apply these skills in real-world settings for the next three weeks through hands-on internships.
Program participants earn 10 credits for their involvement, and juniors are eligible to receive the prestigious State Seal of Civic Engagement, a recognition of their dedication to civic participation.
SCOE’s Role in Shaping Future Leaders
At SCOE, the internship program was not just about teaching students; it was also an opportunity for SCOE managers and staff to learn from these bright, well-informed, and enthusiastic young people. Working with today’s youth, they discovered that these students bring a fresh perspective, are eager to learn, and greatly appreciate the chance to shadow professionals in a government agency.
Spotlight on SCOE Interns
- Ini Effiong, a rising senior from Pleasant Grove High School, worked in the College and Career Readiness Department, where she contributed ideas to projects, worked in teams, and honed her problem-solving skills. “I’ve learned a lot about SCOE and what goes on behind the scenes to ensure students receive the resources they need,” she said.
- Hilena Daniel, a rising senior from Sheldon High School, developed her office skills by responding to emails professionally, working on database projects, and attending meetings. “At SCOE, I learned how it truly is working in an office,” Daniel shared.
- Charlotte Persons, a rising junior from Pleasant Grove High School, gained hands-on technical experience in the Computer, Network, and Telecommunication Support (CNTS) Department, where she disassembled computers, attended staff meetings, and helped unbox new laptop computers. “My co-workers have mentored me, and I learned a lot,” Persons reflected.
- Ishan Singh, a rising senior from Sheldon High School, contributed to the Communications Office by updating the social media content schedule for the upcoming school year. “I’ve learned from SCOE employees that strong bonds are important, and I’ve learned to think about others before self,” Singh said.
- Kara Hughes, a rising junior from Pleasant Grove High School, worked on the Sly Park website and helped plan a literacy outreach YouTube show. “My favorite part is working on projects that I know will affect a lot of people,” Hughes remarked.
These internships offered students not only a glimpse into the world of public service but also the chance to contribute meaningfully to their community. SCOE’s managers and staff were inspired by the interns’ enthusiasm and dedication, reaffirming the importance of offering such opportunities. As these young leaders return to school, they carry with them new skills, knowledge, and a strengthened sense of civic duty that will help them and society in their future endeavors.
Curriculum Specialist Charley Gilmore commends SCOE’s strong dedication to elevating student voice through civic education. “It’s essential that we keep offering students opportunities to share their perspectives and actively contribute to our educational community. This commitment is evident not only in the summer intern opportunity, but also in the appointment of leaders like Judith Marquez, our Appointed Board Member Representing Students, and in making student presentations a regular part of our board meetings.”