Goshen outlines Seal of Civic Readiness, capstone civic-action projects and participation requirements

GOSHEN, N.Y. — Marie Panzer and colleagues described the Goshen High School Seal of Civic Readiness on Sept. 15, explaining point requirements, capstone projects and how the program integrates civic knowledge and participation into the transcript.

Panzer said students need a total of six points to earn the Seal, including a minimum of two points from the knowledge side and two from participation. The district’s course and activity structure is designed to provide seven baseline points if students follow the standard sequence, with additional points available through honors, Advanced Placement or mastery on Regents exams.

Panzer described a four-point capstone in civic participation that requires students to identify a community issue, obtain approvals (for example, from parks and recreation), and attempt to enact a change; the capstone culminates in a panel presentation that often includes local officials. Past capstone projects cited included a peer tutoring program and a sports-equipment donation bin tied to local facility renovations. Panzer said the program is working toward broader participation and specifically noted work to include ELL and life-skills students.

Board members thanked staff for the civic programming; no formal board action on the Seal was taken at the meeting.