"People have to learn how and why to be active, responsible citizens. That is why civic education is so important: the future of our democracy depends on each new generation learning to participate in governing our country.

Civic education requires practicing the skills and incorporating the knowledge and values of democratic citizenship. That is why civic education must extend into the community and why the community needs to come into the civics classroom. By engaging our young people in civic activities, all adults can help them become good citizens."

Gordon P. Whitaker
Professor
School of Government
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill