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State Seal of Civic Engagement

State Seal of Civic Engagement


State Seal of Civic Engagement

 

What Is the State Seal of Civic Engagement?

The State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE) is a state recognition awarded to graduating seniors and eligible juniors who demonstrate excellence in civics education and civic participation, along with a working understanding of the United States Constitution, the California Constitution, and our democratic system of government.

The seal is affixed to the recipient's diploma or transcript. For students applying to college or entering the workforce, it is a visible, state-recognized signal that they understand how government works and have put that understanding into practice in their own community.

MVLA is launching the SSCE at Los Altos High School, Mountain View High School, and Alta Vista High School beginning with the 2026–27 school year.

Who Can Earn It

Any senior at LAHS, MVHS, or AVHS who meets the five criteria below may apply. Consistent with state guidance, no student should be excluded from pursuing the SSCE because of academic ability, program placement, or an unconventional form of civic engagement; students with an IEP or 504 plan are encouraged to apply, and criteria may be met in ways appropriate to their individual goals.

The Five Criteria

  1. Be engaged in academic work in a productive way. Students should be on track to graduate, meeting course requirements or IEP goals.
  2. Demonstrate a competent understanding of U.S. and California government. This can be met by passing (C- or better) an approved course such as [U.S. History, AP U.S. History, Civics, Econ, AP Government, AP Economics, or equivalent.
  3. Complete a civic engagement project (at least 5 hours of commitment) that addresses a real-world problem. Students identify an issue, take action, and reflect on the outcome.
  4. Reflect on the experience. Students describe the problem, the actions they took, and what they learned about their role as a civic participant.
  5. Demonstrate civic-minded character. This is typically shown through sustained involvement in a club, organization, or advocacy effort, along with a letter of recommendation from a mentor or community member.

Example Civic Engagement Projects

  • Organizing or supporting a voter registration drive
  • Founding or leading a student club focused on equity, inclusion, or civic awareness
  • Creating social justice artwork, a podcast, or a short documentary on a community issue
  • Participating in Mock Trial, Model UN, or student government
  • Organizing a community clean-up, food drive, or advocacy day

How to Apply

  1. Review the criteria above and talk with your counselor or civics/economics teacher.
  2. Complete your civic engagement project and written reflection.
  3. Use the SSCE Local rubric to self-assess your work against all five criteria.
  4. Request a letter of recommendation and gather any supporting evidence.
  5.  Submit your completed packet to via this Google Form by April 1, 2027.

Deadline and Recognition

Completed packets are due to Teri Faught in Educational Services by April 1, 2027. Students who meet all five criteria will receive the State Seal on their diploma and transcript, along with a medal recognizing their achievement.

Additional Resources

Details about the State Seal of Civic Engagement from our County Office of Education.

State Seal of Civic Engagement: Local Criteria RubricState Seal of Civic Engagement: Local Criteria Rubric to determine if the project makes eligibility. 

YouTube video explaining the State Seal of Civic Engagement

Information and resources regarding the State Seal of Civic Engagement from CA Dept. of Ed 

Student Workbook: The State Seal of Civic Engagement Toolkit ​provides an interactive format that guides understanding for implementation and additional resources to support​. The State Seal of Civic Engagement Student Workbook guides students through the process of meeting all five criteria in order to complete the State Seal of Civic Engagement.

Questions

District Educational Services: Teri Faught; teri.faught@mvla.net