The Civic Circle

About this Organization

The Civic Circle uses music and the arts to empower young students to understand and participate in democracy, inspiring compassionate, informed, engaged citizens. Through in-school assembly shows and after-school workshops with teaching artists, students learn seven civic skills we call "steps to democracy." These are: civility and respect (Listen!), news literacy (Learn!), voting (Choose!), service-learning (Join!), advocacy (Speak!), organizing (Act!), and public service (Lead!). Our interactive, high-energy assembly show for Grades 3-5 features civic songs in a variety of styles on these "steps to democracy." Our teaching artist roster includes a diverse array of songwriters, poets and visual artists with decades of experience between them of working with youth. Students have the opportunity to write and perform civic songs and poems, and create and showcase civic art pieces, on topics like peace, kindness and helping others. Our innovative, one-of-a-kind program closes the equity gap in civic learning and engagement, and connects with students of all backgrounds and learning styles. Assembly Show: Grades 3-5. After-School Workshops: Grades 3-12.