The State Seal of Civic Engagement is awarded to California 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. High school students, in Grade 12, who have met the required criteria, are eligible to earn the state seal on thier high school diploma and transcript.

Students must meet the 5 required criteria set by the State of California which include:

1. Be engaged in academic work in a productive way.
2. Demonstrate competence in 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.
3. Participate in an informed civic engagement project that addresses real-world problems and requires students to identify and inquire into civic needs or problems, consider varied responses, take action, and reflect on efforts.
4. Self-reflection to demonstrate civic knowledge, skills, and dispositions.
5. Exhibit character traits that reflect civic-mindedness and a commitment to positively impact the classroom, school, community, and/or society.

 TUSD will measure the completion of the 5 required criteria by verifying each student:

1. Meets high school graduation requirements and earns an overall 2.0 GPA. For non-diploma track students with an IEP, all requirements for the Certificate of Completion must be met.
2. Maintains an overall 3.0 GPA in high school social studies courses.  
3. Completes a civic engagement project and submits all required project documents to the school site representative overseeing the State Seal of Civic Engagement for approval.
4. Presents their civic engagement project and self-reflection to a site committee panel for approval. 
5. Submits a list of adult references to verify the student’s character exhibits civic-mindedness and a commitment to make a positive impact.

Email Assistant Principal, Dr. Black, for more information.