Civically Engaged Districts Project

After two years of participation in the Youth in Action forum with her Student Equity Council students, Rachel was asked to become a mentor for the Civically Engaged Districts Project, a collaboration between Rutgers Graduate School of Education, Teachers College, Columbia University, and public school educators throughout the state of New Jersey. This program asks educators and schools to encourage youth researchers to learn from and about people from across the school community, going beyond the classroom and familiar peer groups. They share their findings with peers, teachers and district leaders, expanding community understandings and informing school practices. As a mentor, Rachel leads professional development activities, facilitates Q&A sessions with experts, and provides monthly virtual meetings and one-on-one help for her mentees. Rachel and her students will also be participating in the Youth in Action Forum at Rutgers University for the third year in April 2025.