Philly's high schoolers are stepping out of the classroom and into the world of civic engagement as they prepare for a high-powered Voter Education Summit set to unfold at Temple University today. Teens from Frankford High, George Washington High, and South Philadelphia High are on the roster to get schooled on the nuts and bolts of elections at Howard Gittis Student Center. Workshops and a keynote address by Councilmember Kendra Brooks top the day's lessons.
The summit, according to the city's announcement, is stacked with a curriculum designed to get young minds fired up about community issues and the impact of their votes. They'll delve into understanding how to hold elected officials' feet to the fire, but also how to make their marks within the participatory bounds of the civic process—an opportunity for many to get their first real taste of political agency.
Behind the initiative stand groups like PA Youth Vote and Philly Bolt, who, along with others, aim to churn out not just voters, but informed young citizens ready to navigate the often murky waters of politics. Students will be treated to resource tables hosted by local nonpartisans, engaging directly with the movers and shakers aiming to embolden Philly's youth to seize their democratic rights.
The City of Philadelphia, the School District of Philadelphia, and local communities are pushing the Community Schools initiative to break down the barriers to learning. The summit is a prime example of how these collaborations aim to produce not just graduates but graduates who are college- and career-ready, fostering environments that are healthy, hopeful, and driven by a belief in the supportive nature of the city's fabric.
