View the Civics Handbook
The Massachusetts Civics Project empowers students to lead change in their communities through informed action, research, and advocacy.
What is the Civics Project?
Massachusetts law requires high school students to complete a student-led civics project. This project helps students:
- Analyze societal issues from multiple perspectives
- Engage in civic discourse and advocacy
- Use research to support claims
- Understand how government works
- Practice real-world problem-solving
Stages of the Project
- Stage 1: Reflect on personal values and community issues
- Stage 2: Choose an issue that matters to you
- Stage 3: Conduct research and explore solutions
- Stage 4: Develop an action plan
- Stage 5: Take action in your community
- Stage 6: Reflect on outcomes and present your project
What Makes a Strong Project?
- Student-Led: You decide what to explore and how
- Research-Based: Strong projects rely on facts
- Nonpartisan: Civic engagement, not political views
- Goal-Oriented: Designed to make real impact
- Reflective: Growth matters as much as outcomes
Support Tools
Explore these resources to help you get started: