Preparing all Maryland students for lifelong civic engagement
Our Mission
The Maryland Civic Education Coalition is a cross-partisan organization committed to building an inclusive coalition that brings together students, educators, experts, scholars, and community members who are committed to ensuring that all Maryland students have access to meaningful, hands-on, comprehensive civic education and service-learning opportunities.
At the heart of the Maryland Civic Education Coalition (MDCEC) is a dynamic network of individuals and organizations united by a shared passion for civic education and engagement. Here, students, educators, scholars, community leaders, and civic enthusiasts converge to strategize, advocate, exchange resources, and celebrate the transformative power of civic education across Maryland.
From Vision to Impact: The Maryland Civic Education Coalition’s Inspiring Journey
Our Inspirational Beginning:
In 2020, visionary educational leaders and community advocates across Maryland recognized the critical need for a collaborative network dedicated to enhancing civic education and creating enriching service-learning opportunities for youth. This led to the establishment of MD-CEC under the fiscal sponsorship of Maryland Youth & The Law (MyLaw), a respected 501(c)3 organization championing civic understanding statewide.
Early Achievements:
In 2021, we launched the inaugural Maryland Civic Education & Engagement Leadership Summit, uniting over 300 educators from 22 districts online. This event sparked vibrant discussions, leading to our first comprehensive agenda co-published with the University of Maryland Schools of Education and Public Policy. On Constitution Day 2021, we participated in discussions about the Civics Secures Democracy Act with Congressman Jamie Raskin.
Expanding Impact:
In 2022, we briefed the Maryland Senate Budget & Taxation Committee, hosted our 2nd Annual Summit, and welcomed our 100th member. Federal funding for civics increased, affirming our grassroots advocacy efforts, bolstered by CivXNow's strategic guidance. In 2023, we collaborated with the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation to host our 3rd Annual Summit, welcoming new members dedicated to civic engagement and service.
Advocacy in Action:
During the 2023 Maryland General Assembly session, we passionately supported a civic seals bill, securing unanimous approval in the Senate. Despite encountering obstacles in the House due to a lack of sponsorship, we gained valuable insights to refine our strategies. Building on this momentum, in 2024, we are actively cultivating bipartisan support for our policy positions, leveraging our statewide network to garner broader backing. As we gear up for 2025, we remain steadfast in our commitment to success, confident that our collective efforts will pave the way for meaningful change.
Empowering a Vibrant Community for Civic Progress:
Our inaugural in-person summit at Crofton High School marked a pivotal moment in our journey, fostering robust dialogue and collaboration among civic leaders statewide. With our membership steadily expanding, we've extended our reach and impact across Maryland. Through dynamic civics workshops with key stakeholders such as Maryland's Service Year members, the MD250 Commission, at the Elijah Cummings Democracy & Freedom Festival, MSEA, and the Maryland Association of Student Councils, we continue to amplify our collective voice and drive civic engagement forward.
Join the Movement:
As we continue to collaborate with our members and engage with the Moore-Miller administration and the Maryland General Assembly, we invite you to be part of this empowering journey. Your support and participation can significantly shape the future of civic education in Maryland. By joining the MDCEC, you're not just becoming a member of an organization; you're stepping into a movement dedicated to fostering informed, engaged citizens for a stronger tomorrow.
Together, let's advance civic education and shape a vibrant, democratic future for Maryland. Join us, and be part of this exciting chapter in civic empowerment.
