CivicWeek 2008 programs have concluded. Information remains posted below for your reference. Check back in November of 2008 for updated CivicWeek Spring 2009 program information or contact us to receive materials by mail.

CivicWeek

Service-Learning Field Studies for Outstanding High School Students

Modeled after popular alternative break programs for college students, CivicWeek programs bring together diverse groups of outstanding high school students for intense, weeklong, service-learning immersion experiences in host communities around the country.

Each CivicWeek program examines a specific social issue as it impacts a dynamic community in the United States. For instance, past participants have studied Youth Violence & Conflict Resolution in Detroit, Michigan, Civil Rights & Social Justice in Birmingham, Alabama, and Native American Issues on a reservation in South Dakota.

Under the supervision of trained CEP staff, each group of 14-18 students spends their days engaged in meaningful service work and meetings with prominent government, business, and community leaders. Evenings are filled with team-building activities, thoughtful reflection on the issues the group is exploring, and of course, relaxation and fun.

CivicWeek participants...

• Learn about social issues that impact today's society through hands-on experience
• Serve communities in need
• Develop stronger communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills
• Earn service-learning credit hours
• Discover ways to become more active leaders and citizens in their own schools and communities

What to Expect:  While each CivicWeek program is unique, there are several main elements that are common to every student's experience: service projects, community experiences, reflection, community living, group building, and recreation. To learn more about each of these elements, click here.

Credit & Service Hours:  The Center for Talent Development is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. As such, CivicWeek participants may be eligible for high school credit and approximately 40 hours of service-learning credit, depending on each individual school's guidelines.

After the Program: CivicWeek programs are designed to help prepare students for a lifetime of active citizenship. Through alumni programs, quarterly newsletters, internet resources, and special events, CEP continues to help students identify ways to become more engaged in their own schools and communities, even after their program concludes.

The National Association of Secondary School Principals has placed CivicWeek on the NASSP National Advisory List of Student Contests and Activities for 2007-2008.

Back to top