Ensuring that U.S. citizens of all backgrounds have access to quality civic education — and the tools to deepen their understanding — is essential to not just strengthening the bedrock of our democracy, but building upon it as well. In this ever-changing political landscape, this knowledge is vital. Equally as important is fostering civic engagement, empowering individuals to actively participate in the democratic process in the hopes they will contribute meaningfully to their individual communities.
Founded in 2023, Civic Learning Week, a celebration dedicated to promoting civic education across the United States, will take place March 10 – 14. Hosted by iCivics, the event brings together over 100 partner organizations across 21 states, featuring 121 events aimed at making civic learning a national priority. The week provides an opportunity to highlight the importance of civics in fostering an informed and engaged citizenry, helping individuals better understand their rights and responsibilities, critically think about current events, and become empowered to participate in civic life. Access to high-quality civic education varies across the country — state to state, town to town — leaving many students and adults without these skills. As we approach Civic Learning Week, we recognize the vital work of F. M. Kirby Foundation partner organizations dedicated to strengthening civic literacy and promoting active participation in our democracy.
The National Constitution Center
As a nonpartisan institution dedicated to increasing public understanding of the U.S. Constitution, the National Constitution Center offers a variety of resources designed to engage learners of all ages in meaningful discussions about the foundations of American democracy. Through interactive exhibits, live debates, and digital learning initiatives, the National Constitution Center provides immersive resources that bring the Constitution to life, ensuring that civic learning is accessible and engaging, both inside and outside the classroom.
ave been described as the cradles of constitutional democracy, and the teachers at their helm are truly guardians of the Constitution,” said Julie Silverbrook, Vice President of Civic Education. “As the National Constitution Center and the nation prepare to commemorate America’s 250th birthday in 2026, we will ensure that millions of students around the country are inspired to learn, understand, preserve, protect, and perfect the grand experiment in constitutional democracy entrusted to the American people by our forebears.”
Beyond its exhibits, the Center plays a crucial role in advancing civic education through its online programs and educational initiatives. The Interactive Constitution, which has been viewed nearly 100 million times since launching in 2015, allows users to explore constitutional text alongside interpretations from legal scholars with diverse perspectives, fostering critical thinking and constructive debate. Constitution 101, a free 15-module curriculum — offered as both a teacher-led and student-led learning experience at the high school level, with a middle school version launching in the fall — provides learners with a basic understanding of the Constitution’s text, history, structure, and case law, reaches more than 2 million learners each year. The student-led version was created in collaboration with Khan Academy and is hosted on their popular platform. Additionally, the Center hosts live online classes through its Scholar Exchanges and Civic Stories that connect students with experts as they explore history and engage in constitutional conversations. Later this year, the Center is launching an Interactive Declaration of Independence as a companion to the Interactive Constitution. The Center will bring these resources together through a new digital Civic Toolkit that will serve as the essential guide to America’s founding documents. The Center also offers a variety of professional learning opportunities for educators, empowering them to explore the Constitution’s history and contemporary relevance with their students. By providing these tools, the National Constitution Center helps equip the next generation with the skills necessary to engage in thoughtful civil discourse, reinforcing our democratic principles.
Bill of Rights Institute
Another organization dedicated to strengthening civic education is the Bill of Rights Institute. Like The National Constitution Center, the Institute is committed to educating students about the Constitution and the tenets of a free society. Through its lesson plans, primary source collections, and interactive learning tools, the Bill of Rights Institute assists educators in bringing history and government to life in the classroom and beyond. By focusing on the foundational ideas of liberty, individual rights, and civic responsibility, the Institute sets up students with the knowledge and skills needed to become active participants in our democracy.
“The Bill of Rights Institute equips students and teachers to live the ideals of a free and just society, and we have been proud to engage in this important work for more than 25 years,” said David J. Bobb, Ph.D, Bill of Rights Institute President and CEO. “We offer market-leading classroom resources and educational programs free of charge, so all students can have access to the quality civic and history education they need.”
In addition to its classroom resources, the Institute offers programs that encourage students to think critically and engage in discourse. Its MyImpact Challenge encourages young people to explore contemporary issues by developing service projects through the lens of constitutional principles, while the Bill of Rights Institute Student Fellowship provides an intensive six-month program that helps high school students develop as leaders and build skills applicable in civil society. The Institute also offers professional development for educators so teachers have the tools to inspire the next generation of civic leaders, and the Institute currently works with more than 80,000 educators who reach more than 8 million students per year. By fostering a deep understanding of the rights and responsibilities that come with citizenship, the Bill of Rights Institute plays a vital role in preparing students to engage thoughtfully in civic life.
Institute for Citizens & Scholars
Another organization making a significant impact in this field is the Institute for Citizens & Scholars. Dedicated to cultivating the next generation of civic-minded learners and leaders, the Institute supports programs that strengthen democratic engagement, preparing young people to become informed and active participants in society. Through its higher education, community, and workplace programs, the Institute equips Gen Z with the knowledge and skills necessary to bridge divides and solve problems in their communities and beyond.
“Higher education has a responsibility to provide students with critical civic skills and knowledge to participate effectively in our constitutional democracy,” said Rajiv Vinnakota, President of the Institute for Citizens & Scholars. “College campuses are among the most diverse spaces in our country, and college is an important time for students to develop the habits, practices, and norms to live in a multicultural and interconnected democracy. Doing so can create a ripple effect, making young people more optimistic and increasingly committed about their future and our nation.”
One of the Institute for Citizens & Scholars’ key initiatives is College Presidents for Civic Preparedness, which was founded in 2023. This initiative brings together over 100 campus leaders from diverse ideologies and institutions nationwide, united in preparing students for active civic engagement in today’s complex and divided country. By promoting an environment where students are encouraged to engage, the initiative seeks to strengthen the role of higher education in preparing students to be informed and responsible citizens. The Institute supports these leaders in developing strategies to advance critical inquiry, free expression, and civil discourse at their institutions, helping to cultivate a campus culture that values democratic participation.
As we approach Civic Learning Week, it’s clear that the work being done by these organizations is essential to the health and future of our democracy. From providing educational resources and innovative learning tools to creating opportunities for hands-on engagement, these initiatives are helping ensure that civic education remains a priority.
