From elective options to lunch menus and local curfews and regulations, many students are often left wondering if they can change their circumstances in and out of school. But, how can students voice their opinions and concerns within their local community? Two words that perfectly answer this question are civic engagement. Civic engagement is a way for students to directly address issues that affect their lives both in and outside school. Students can work at different levels of government, whether that be at the local or state level, depending on the opportunities offered by their district and school in their respective locations.
Commonly, students believe that political and civic involvement is restricted to adults, though this is merely a misconception that needs to be redressed with updated clarity. Students hold the power to help make changes based on their perspectives in the community, yet when students hesitate to express themselves, it results in no reform. Students must step up to convey their ideas and provide suggestions from their perspectives, as it not only offers a unique point of view but also encourages administrators and higher-up officials to implement new initiatives for change.
Within Edison, New Jersey, there are several civic-related opportunities and programs that students can join to help lead the charge in changing the community. For example, Congressman Frank Pallone’s Youth Advisory Council is one of these programs that allows students in Edison and those who reside in the Sixth Congressional District to tackle issues they feel strongly about. Students get the chance to collaborate with other students across over twenty-six high schools and twenty-three towns, and not only propose legislation, but also have it passed into law.
The Youth Advisory Council offers students within the program to choose a topic of interest and select a specific committee to participate in. Committees range in different topics, from technology to immigration to healthcare, with each committee focusing on a different policy area. In addition, students can also run for executive board positions which is meant to model a student-run government where students can be the ones to take action.
Another such program that has been newly introduced is Dr. Edward Aldarelli’s Superintendent’s Advisory Group For Empowering Students (SAGES). Aldarelli’s advisory committee is tailored for students who want to make an impact in their school communities. Students get the chance to work hand-in-hand with Aldarelli and other student representatives from Edison High School, J.P. Stevens High School, and the Edison Success Academy, to help shape student life and bring change within their academic environment. Specifically, students highlight key problems they have experienced in school and propose realistic solutions with specific initiatives to Aldarelli and other administrators.
Civic participation is a crucial part of any thriving community. An early start to civic engagement prepares young adults for a future made fuller with a sense of responsibility and purpose.
