Students Embrace Advocacy and Civic Engagement

June 13, 2024
• What began as a course requirement for these high school juniors has led to a deeper examination of the issues of today and may affect the legislation of tomorrow.

Over the past few years, the Needham Public Schools and the League of Women Voters have come together to highlight a part of the high school curriculum that is geared toward increasing the civic engagement of Massachusetts youth. In their junior year, students are required to research and present an opinion on current and potential legislative action on both the local and state level. The resulting Civics Showcase was held at Powers Hall in Needham Town Hall on Saturday, June 8th. With 46 groups presenting on everything from animal cruelty to mental health support, it was a way for current leaders to take the pulse on what the next generation is passionate about. It was also a training ground for students to learn that their opinions carry weight and their words can lead to action.

Municipal Producer Yuxiao Yuan teamed up with high school junior Ben Gilman to cover the event.

This story ran as part of the Needham Channel News, a weekly newscast airing on The Needham Channel every Thursday at 7:30pm. The Needham Channel News can be found on the Community Channel: Comcast 9, Astound 15 and Verizon 29. Most Thursdays it also can be viewed on our HD Channel on Verizon 2129, Astound 613 and streaming on this site.