Four Newark High School seniors _ Grace DeVelder, Cynthia Hernandez, Jadon Kowaleski and Beatrice VanRiper graduated June 21st with a distinction not previously afforded NHS students.
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Affixed to their diplomas was the Seal of Civic Readiness, a formal recognition they had attained a high level of proficiency in terms of civic knowledge, civic skills, civic mindset and civic experiences.
The Seal of Civic Readiness distinction, which also appears on their high school transcript:
• Shows their understanding of a commitment to participatory government; civic responsibility and civic values;
• Demonstrates to universities, colleges, and future employers they have completed an action project in civics or social justice; and
• Recognizes the value of civic engagement and scholarship.
In order to obtain the Seal of Civic Readiness, the four students applied for and completed all the requirements for a New York State local or Regents diploma and earned a total of six points with at least two points in Civic Knowledge and at least two points in Civic Participation.
While the opportunity to earn the Seal of Civic Readiness began in the Newark Central School District during the 2023-24 school year and now has eighth graders begin to meet requirements, the four recent graduates met most of the criteria throughout their high school career.
“I am excited that we are able to offer this to interested students,” NHS Principal Kelly A. Zielke said. “It helps to align our students to becoming a productive citizen and is a distinction for their hard work and commitment. I cannot thank the staff who have been involved in bringing this to fruition enough, and hope that each year more students will see the benefits of this seal.”
NHS Social Students Department Leader Mark Eakins and Newark Middle School Social Department Leader Matthew Klemann are overseeing the program. Complete information about the program will be shared with eighth and ninth graders at the beginning each school year.
"I am excited about the opportunity to expand research projects and volunteer opportunities for our students. These initiatives will provide them with valuable experiences and help them earn this distinction,” Eakins said.
Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Krista Lewis noted that some of the required activities for the Seal of Civic Readiness are ones that students would normally participate in as part of regular course curricula while others are choice-based.
Students who wish to apply for the Seal of Civic Readiness must submit an application to their school counselor no later than April 1st of their senior year.