Click for Google map for directions to 11645 Ridge RoadGrass Valley, CA 95945
|
Click to call 530.273.3351
Seal Of Civic Engagement
![card header icon]()
NJUHSD Seal of Civic Engagement
What is the State Seal of Civic Engagement?
This recognition is awarded to students who demonstrate excellence in civics education and participation, and an understanding of the United States Constitution, the California Constitution, and the democratic system of government. The State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE) closed for the class of 2026 on February 2, 2026. NJUHSD students in the class of 2027 will learn more about the award in May 2026. The application for the 2026-2027 school year will open on November 2, 2026, with the application due date being February 1, 2027.
Student voice plays a vital role in shaping an equitable education system and ensuring that district decisions reflect the perspectives of those most affected. The SSCE offers a meaningful and achievable opportunity for students who are passionate about government, civic participation, and making a difference in their communities. Its presence on student transcripts can enhance college and career prospects. Ultimately, the SSCE serves as a powerful motivator for students to become active, informed contributors to their communities.
What is a Civic Engagement project?
A civic engagement project is a project in which a student or group of students defines problems in their own communities, investigates root causes and possible solutions, develops and implements plans to address those problems, and reflects on their actions to help them develop identities as citizens with rights and responsibilities.
NJUHSD students can meet this requirement with a project that includes service hours, a reflection of the purpose of the service project, and a recommendation from a community member.
![card header icon]()
The 5 Criteria used to assess applicants:
Links and directions for the class of 2027 will be available in May 2026.
- Criteria 1 - Be productively engaged in academic work.
- Have a good attendance record
- Be on track to graduate with a diploma or certificate of completion
- Criteria 2 - Demonstrate a competent understanding of the U.S. and California constitutions; functions and governance of local governments; tribal government structures and organizations; the role of the citizen in a constitutional democracy; and democratic principles, concepts, and processes.
- Will be satisfied with earning a passing grade in a 12th Grade Government/Economics course (which may include either College Prep or Advanced Placement level coursework).
- Criteria 3 - Participate in one or more informed civic engagement projects that address real-world problems and require students to identify and inquire into civic needs or issues, consider varied responses, take action, and reflect on efforts.
- Students must complete a Civic Engagement project with a minimum of twenty verified service hours.
- The project must identify and address a real-world issue and create a slideshow or written reflection on the significance of this issue in your community or state. This representation of your project's significance will be submitted on the application form.
- Examples of projects include, but are not limited to:
- Political Involvement, e.g., vote, campaign, or write letters to your representatives.
-
-
- Social Responsibility, eg: Consider the welfare of others and the environment when making decisions.
-
-
-
- Community Research, e.g., Explore how your community is impacted by current social issues.
-
-
-
- Association Involvement, e.g., Participate in organizations that focus on community improvement.
-
-
-
- Direct Service, e.g., Give personal time and energy to address immediate community needs.
-
-
-
- Philanthropic Giving, eg: Donate to and/or organize fundraising for local priorities.
-
-
-
- Advocacy & Education, eg, Use your voice to persuade decision makers to make choices that benefit the community
-
- Criteria 4 - Demonstrate civic knowledge, skills, and dispositions through self-reflection.
- A definition of the civic problem
- An explanation of what the student did to address the problem
- A reflection about societal/systemic solutions to the problem
- After completing the project, students must complete and submit a SSCE Self-Reflection Form or an equivalent reflection of their service work.
- This self-reflection must include
- Criteria 5 - Exhibit character traits that reflect civic-mindedness and a commitment to positively impact the classroom, school, community, and/or society.
- Concern for the rights and well-being of all and a desire to contribute to the common good, including members of groups historically disenfranchised by virtue of race, ethnicity, language background, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or another social identity.
- Evidence of observed character traits that reflect civic-mindedness and a commitment to supporting the school and community.
- Show Civic Engagement through:
- Obtain one or more recommendations from a peer, mentor, local, state, or national official, or non-familial community member.
- Recommenders must complete a reference form.
