Through a program created by the California legislature with Assembly Bill No. 24, Piedmont students can now receive a State Seal of Civic Engagement on their diplomas, said social studies teacher Hillary Freeman. There are five requirements to acquire the seal. The first being on track to graduate and attending 96% of classes. Next, students must pass a senior year Gov/Econ course and complete a Civic Action Project. The project requires students to do some form of civic volunteering for a minimum of five hours.
“A lot of students got involved in campaign work this election cycle [which can complete the requirement],” Freeman said. “Beyond election season, getting involved in organizations and interest groups that students believe in, as well as also working within their community through student leadership options.”
Additionally, students must submit a reflection of the service work and obtain a recommendation from a non-familial community member. When students have completed all requirements, they should set up a meeting with Assistant Superintendent Ariel Dolowich in order to submit their materials to receive the seal.
