VIEW GALLERY | Massachusetts Civics Project Showcase at the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate

chusetts Civics Project Showcases are large, science fair-style events where eighth-through-12th grade students present civic action projects they have designed to address real-world community issues. Students display their research and action plans, while local experts, lawmakers, and community leaders evaluate the work and provide feedback.

CMS scholars — guided by educators Linda Harrison, Katherine Jahl, Monica Toler  and Beth Beaulieu — researched and took action on topics such as:

• The Massachusetts Emergency Food Assistance Program (MEFAP)
• Advocating for more job opportunities for 14 year-olds in Salem
• Creatively addressing the needs of youth for clothing and hygiene products
• Improving the aesthetics of Salem by addressing issues of litter and trash in our city

All groups made strides towards changing policy, impacting budgets, and bringing attention to what youth can do.