Civic Learning Award: Cesar Chavez Continuation High School

Cesar Chavez Continuation High School

Compton Unified School District
County of: Los Angeles
Civic Learning Award of: Merit

School Website

Civic Learning Description

Cesar Chavez Continuation High School is designated a model school by the California continuation education association. More than 50% of the students participated in a two week unit on politics which culminated in their voting in a mock election and completing a post-election survey. Approximately 50 students were also trained by the LA County Clerk’s Office and worked at the polls. For more than 25 years, the Government and Economics class has involved students in the study of poverty and in service-learning at the Rescue Mission, which provides assistance to the homeless. Chavez also offers a Student Leadership Class that sponsors many community oriented activities.

 

Research-Based Civic Education Practices

This school demonstrates the following research-based best practices in civic education. For more information on research-based best practices, visit the Campaign for the Civic Mission of Schools website.

• Provide instruction in government, history, law and democracy, and avoid teaching only rote facts about dry procedures.
• Discuss current local, national and international issues and events in the classroom, particularly those that young people view as important to their lives.
• Conduct community service that is linked to the formal curriculum and classroom (Service-learning)
• Offer extracurricular activities that provide opportunities for young people to get involved in their schools or communities.
• Encourage student participation in school governance.
• Encourage students’ participation in simulations of democratic process and procedures such as voting, trials, legislative deliberation, and diplomacy.

Contact Information

Rudolf Washington, Principal
12501 S. Wilmington Ave.
Compton, CA 90222
(310) 898-6340