Our Program

The Civic Circle’s after-school enrichment program uses music and songwriting to teach seven civic skills that we call “steps to democracy.” Students learn civility (Listen!), news literacy (Learn!), voting (Choose!), voluntarism (Join!), advocacy (Speak!), organizing (Act!), and public service (Lead!), empowering them to exercise civic clout in their schools, communities, nation and world. We also present concerts and assembly shows, and are producing music videos and lesson plans to make our program available to teachers everywhere.

See how The Civic Circle's 'Vote for Me!" Assembly show and workshops meet Maryland education standards for grades K-5.

DOWNLOAD OUR VOTE FOR ME FLYER >

 

What people are saying about The Civic Circle programs:

“It's hard to imagine a more urgent mission than this one in American public life today, and so there's a lot to love about what the Civic Circle is doing. I particularly love the way that they are so inventive and creative, and they make civic learning a lot of fun for young people ... It should start off fun so it becomes a lifelong adventure for them.” – Congressman Jamie Raskin, D-Md.

“The Civic Circle is an extraordinary organization whose mission has never been more important than right now ... The most important treasure that all of us have as a community is our children and youth, and so the work of The Civic Circle to inspire them to plant seeds, to help them process and engage in a way that's productive and authentic–where they truly listen–are skill sets that will not just help them in their lives, but all of us in all of ours.” – Montgomery County Vice President Gabe Albornoz.

“After seeing your show, my daughter set up an election with her stuffed animals. She created ballots and everything! It clearly made an impression on her.” — Michelle Mosher, Silver Spring educator and parent.

“I liked that you were learning and having fun while watching a show.” — Kate B., Third Grade.

“Lea Morris and Nick Newlin brought civic responsibility alive for my Fourth Grade class through humor, music, and audience participation. The tunes and catch phrases encouraging voting and voice could be heard in the hallway and classroom days after the performance. We need this every year!” — Christine Lewis, Fourth Grade Teacher, St. Andrew’s Episcopal School