Helping students develop the core knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential to engaged citizenship.

Our American Voice connects middle school students to the democratic process through active community problem-solving in an after-school program that is engaging, interactive and grounded in real life.

The 22-week program emphasizes critical thinking skills as students learn the fundamentals of American democracy and work to create positive change in their communities. Students engage in team activities, discussions and research, and partner with community agencies and elected officials to find solutions to issues in their own backyards.

The OAV website provides a forum for students to discuss issues, participate in on-line activities, document their work, and share their experiences with students from other OAV sites.

Students and facilitators have opportunities to:

• Work on community issues determined by their team
• Create multi-media presentations
• Develop school/community presentations
• Participate in the Spring Our American Voice Summit with other sites