Board adopts California State Seal of Civic Engagement; students showcased project wins
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Summary
The West Contra Costa Unified board adopted the State Seal of Civic Engagement after presentations from students and staff detailing district criteria and pilot projects; the resolution was amended to include volunteering, poll work and voter preregistration as qualifying activities.
The West Contra Costa Unified School District board voted on March 25 to adopt the California State Seal of Civic Engagement and a district‑specific process for awarding the recognition to high school students.
District staff described how they adapted the state’s five criteria into accessible pathways: academic standing, civics knowledge, a community‑based civic project, reflection, and a letter of endorsement. Jessica Petrilli and Tiara Shelton outlined application mechanics, which use the Y Plan project framework and SchoolLinks for submissions; staff said students could begin applying as soon as next week if the board’s action was approved.
Student presenters described concrete projects. Richmond High public‑health students analyzed youth vaping, gathered survey data and recommended policy changes to Richmond City Council; the council later voted in favor of a tobacco retail license ordinance. “This experience has helped me understand real world issues and show me how students can take action to make meaningful changes,” said Mary Anne, a Richmond High student.
Trustees asked detailed implementation questions about timelines, accessibility for students with IEPs and how project quality will be reviewed. Board members asked that the policy include volunteer internships and voter‑engagement activities; Trustee Regler moved an amendment to insert “appropriate volunteer internship or relevant paid employment opportunities (such as working polls)” and to add preregistration or registering to vote as an example. The board approved the resolution with that amendment.
Staff said the application deadline for seniors this year will be May 8 and that reviews will be convened by a district team led by Tiara Shelton and involving family engagement and college‑and‑career staff. For students with IEPs, staff said accommodations will be applied and alternatives such as video reflections or written comments will be accepted.
District leaders emphasized that the seal is designed to be both rigorous and inclusive, giving students college application benefits and a diploma notation while building civic skills. The board directed staff to finalize the application materials and communications for rollout to school sites.
