Students honored with state Seal of Civic Engagement
PVUSD recognizes 2 seniors, a junior
WATSONVILLE >> There is no shortage of benefits of being civically minded, even at a young age. Those who are well-versed in politics and the inner workings of government will know where to go when issues arise, be more informed when it comes to voting in elections and know what it takes if they wish to run for office themselves.
California even has its own State Seal of Civic Engagement for students demonstrating excellence in both civic education and participation, and at its Tuesday meeting, the Pajaro Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees recognized the first three students in not only the district but also Santa Cruz County to receive the award.
“Each student is receiving a certificate that acknowledges their earning the State Seal of Civic Engagement, which really is centered around a civic engagement project,” said Julie Edwards, the district's career technical education coordinator. “They've demonstrated leadership and a lot of thought and care around that project.”
In this case, Edwards said the project was bringing the seal to the district. In 2020, the California Legislature adopted the criteria and guidance for awarding the seal to students who exhibit prowess in civics education, including knowledge of democracy and both the U.S. and California constitutions.
In last year's Summer in the City program, in which students interned at Watsonville's various city departments over the course of three weeks, students began conducting research into the seal program and recommended forming a task force consisting of community members, a school board trustee, educators and other stakeholders that fall. The school board accepted the recommendations in January.
This year, the three students that were honored were Watsonville High School seniors Paula Camacho and Morielle Mamaril and junior Marco Padilla-Perez.
“The work that they did is going to pay it forward for students going into the future, much like the Seal of Biliteracy has grown by leaps and bounds over time, so will the State Seal of Civic Engagement,” said Edwards.
The three students were awarded certificates and medallions, which they may wear at their graduation ceremonies. They will also receive a seal on their diplomas, and their achievement will be included in their transcripts.
Michael Berman, the district's director of equity and state and federal programs, praised the three students for their work.
“I love having these celebratory moments, so congratulations to the three of you,” he said. “I know it's growing and growing, and we have another project this summer that builds on the work that you all did, so thank you for trailblazing.”
Board President Jennifer Holm, who also served on the task committee, said government is at its strongest when the community is engaged.
“Every one of us up here can attest to advocating for the importance of what you believe in,” she said. “Even if you don't win every battle or vote, you make a difference in the outcome regardless, even if it doesn't feel like it. In taking the steps that the students have taken in earning the Seal of Civic Engagement, you have taken up tools that will provide an advantage in navigating the sometimes tricky waters of government. You'll benefit, your families benefit and the community will ultimately benefit, and it gives me a great deal of hope for the future.”