XI: CIVICS

 

Connecting Youth to Civic Life in the Natural State

Civics education introduces students to governmental processes, constitutional principles, and the responsibilities of citizenship. In Arkansas, data suggests that civic knowledge and participation among younger residents remains limited. The 2023 Arkansas Civic Health Index shows that the state ranks last nationally in voter registration and turnout in federal elections. Only 62% of eligible Arkansans are registered to vote and 54% voted in the 2020 presidential election, both below national averages. Additionally, younger Arkansans participate at lower rates than older age groups, indicating a need for earlier and more practical civic learning opportunities. These trends demonstrate the importance of connecting classroom instruction with real, accessible ways to engage in civic life. 

As President of the SAU Student Government Association, we host voter registration days for students and coordinate tabling events for Constitution Day annually that focus on practical civic responsibilities, such as understanding ballots, local governance, and citizen roles.

SAU SGA Constitution Day Event

SAU SGA Voter Registration Table

During my year of service as Miss Greater Camden in the Miss America Opportunity, I created Young Voices, Big Impact, a youth-focused civic engagement initiative. The initiative aimed to make civics understandable and applicable by pairing education with direct participation. To expand accessibility beyond school-based programming, I developed an online series titled Everyday Citizenship, which used the tagline “making government make sense.” The series consisted of brief informational modules explaining government structure, civic rights, and avenues for community involvement. The purpose was to reach students where they already receive information, digital platforms, and present civics in a concise but relevant format.

I’ve also established a Mayor’s Youth Council for students in grades 9–12. The council provides structured, ongoing exposure to municipal government by allowing students to observe meetings, learn from local officials, and participate in community discussions. This model reflects findings from the Civic Health Index suggesting that civic engagement increases when individuals have clear and accessible opportunities to contribute to public decision-making. 

Crossett Mayor's Youth Council

These localized efforts exist alongside statewide policy developments. Arkansas requires high school students to pass a civics assessment to graduate, and beginning in 2027, all students enrolled in public colleges and universities will be required to complete an American government course. These requirements demonstrate a growing institutional recognition of the importance of civic literacy.

Strengthening civic education in Arkansas involves not only teaching governmental concepts but also providing meaningful pathways for participation. Initiatives that combine instruction and involvement can help prepare the next generation of Arkansans to engage in their communities and contribute to the state’s civic health.