We the People:
National Symposium on Civic Education Research
March 6–7, 2026
The Center for Civic Education and the Civic Education Research Lab (CERL) invited leaders from across the nation for a pivotal gathering at the intersection of research, practice, and policy. The We the People: National Symposium on Civic Education Research took place in Washington, D.C. on March 6-7, 2026.
The Importance of Civic Education Has Never Been Greater
Recording: Day 1
Recording: Day 2
Why It Matters So Much
This event culminated three years of civic education innovation and research in collaboration with state partners across the country under the James Madison Legacy Project Expansion Program which demonstrates measurable gains for all learners—especially for students with disabilities, English language learners, and other groups who have been historically underresourced.
At a time when generational civic learning gaps threaten the health of our democracy, these findings will serve as a jumping off point for a national conversation. This symposium was an opportunity for the entire civic education field—educators, policymakers, researchers, nonprofit leaders, and advocates—to come together and ask:
- How can we translate this evidence into concrete action and broader support for civic learning at every level?
- What strategies will ensure meaningful access to high-quality civic education for every student in every community?
- How can research and evidence drive policy change and sustainable investment in civic education?
Photos from the Event
Funded by a grant from the Education Innovation and Research Program of the U.S. Department of Education.
