The U.S. Department of Education has released a new report citing an urgent need to incorporate civic learning in the national school curriculum so as to create a more informed and engaged citizenry. “Today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders,” U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan explains, “and giving them a strong foundation in civic values is critical to the vitality of America’s democracy and economy in the 21st century” (press release). As Secretary Duncan indicates, civic learning is crucial to the well-being and sustainability of the nation; however, this is a role that has been increasingly diminished in the educational system and is in need of revitalizing.

The Department’s report, “Civic Learning and Engagement in Democracy: A Road Map and Call to Action,” as well as new publication from the Department’s National Task Force on Civic Learning and Democratic Engagement entitled, “A Crucible Moment: College Learning & Democracy’s Future,” are the focus of a January 10, 2012 event at the White House in which Obama Administration officials and educational leaders will gather to participate in a national conversation concerning the method for effectively pursuing civic education. The White House event, “For Democracy’s Future: Education Reclaims Our Civic Mission,” will be livestreamed today at www.whitehouse.gov/live. The conversation starts at 2 p.m. ET, with Secretary Duncan speaking at 5:30 p.m. on how to better connect college, career, and citizenship.