Who are we?
We are students in Mrs. Janovitz’s 2017 Senior AP Literature and Composition class. We have spent much of this year reading and analyzing literature and nonfiction texts that address various social and political issues. That work led us here. Our discussions of these texts made us realize that civic engagement is essential. So, here at Burlington High School in Massachusetts, we are working to promote responsible citizenship throughout the community. We have made a 30 day challenge in order to get the students, teachers, community, and YOU involved. Please join us in our effort to promote responsible citizenship and better our community and our country!
What is a responsible citizen?
While ideas about responsible citizenship may vary, our team has developed the following definition:
Being a responsible citizen in 21st century America requires individuals to uphold and promote core democratic
values by seeking knowledge and understanding, communicating openly and honestly, serving the common good,
engaging in civic action, and expressing both loyalty to America and respect for other cultures.
What’s the challenge?
The 30-Day Responsible Citizenship Challenge offers concrete actions you can take to engage in responsible citizenship. The actions range in intensity and vary in terms of the values they promote, but they are all relevant and accessible. In creating and participating in this 30-Day Responsible Citizenship Challenge, we hope to help others promote the democratic values of equality, justice, diversity, liberty, community, and popular sovereignty. Check out the specific actions on our calendar.
Which of our school's 21st Century Learning Expectations and Core Values are reflected in this project?
While engaging in the 30-Day Responsible Citizenship Challenge, people will:
- think critically
- communicate effectively
- solve problems resourcefully
- collaborate successfully
- exhibit respect for themselves and empathy for others
- develop a sense of responsibility
- work independently
- generate their own questions and investigate independent topics
- act with integrity
- demonstrate strength of character
- actively and responsibly participate as members of a local, national, and global community