State Seal of Civic Engagement
The California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), marked by a gold seal on the transcript of diplomas, recognizes high school graduates who have demonstrated excellence in civic engagement by working towards and advocating for meaningful solutions to a community or social problem; quality reflection of student activities and growth; and have mentor testimony of relevant student civic activities.
Why is it important?
The SSCE is an opportunity to enable all students, particularly those from marginalized communities, to have relevant, rigorous, and engaging learning opportunities. Such opportunities would enable students to understand that each student matters and belongs in our democratic society and that they have the right and responsibility to use their learning and their skills to make the world, and their community, a better place.
What do students receive?
- A special seal/ insignia from the California Dept of Education on your high school diploma (as a Senior)
- A certificate from the district
- Recognition at a TUSD board meeting
How is it achieved?
To qualify for the Seal of Civic Engagement, TUSD juniors and seniors need to meet the following requirements:
- Complete Civic Engagement Project/Activities that have:
- Identified a meaningful issue that you want to address and/or fix
- Built awareness of the issue, discussed ideas with others, and advocated for effective solutions
- Taken action to engage with key decision makers to address the problem
- Reflection on personal growth, what impact you had, and how you could improve in a Student Reflection (written essay, interview/conversation, video, or presentation)
- Letter of recommendation from a peer and your mentor
- Additional Site Based Requirements to the State Seal of Civic Engagement
- On-track to graduate
- 3.0 Cumulative G.P.A. or better (non-weighted)
- A “B” or better in U.S. History (11th), Government (12th), or equivalent class
- No more than four (4) unexcused absences for the academic year
- Completion of a Student Evidence Portfolio
Resources
TUSD TIMELINE
August–October: Define Civic Problem - Deadline: October 31
October–November: Plan Project Implementation
November–March: Complete Civic Engagement Project, Deadline: March 15
March–April: Complete Reflection & Presentation - Deadline: April 15
May: Celebration with State Seal Recipients
Contacts
Tracy High School: Ms. Bradford mbradford@tusd.net
Kimball High School: Mr. Anderson scottanderson@tusd.net
West High School: Mr. Hill rhill@tusd.net, Ms. Butler sbutler@tusd.net
Tracy Unified School District: Dr. Stagnaro mstagnaro@tusd.net