9th graders at Bangor High School participated in an exciting “Civics on the Road” program this morning, a unique initiative designed to engage students with local political leaders, representatives from the Secretary of State’s office, and staff from the Maine Department of Education. The program aims to foster a deeper understanding of civic responsibility and participation among students.
Throughout the day, students navigated a variety of interactive stations that covered essential aspects of civic engagement, from understanding the voting process to discussing community issues. Geoff Wingard, the Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction Specialist, emphasized the importance of the program, stating, “Civics on the Road will visit one school per month throughout the 2025-2026 school year, with programming tailored to elementary, middle, and high school learners. Each visit includes interactive stations, a culminating town hall, and optional professional learning for educators to extend civic instruction beyond the day itself.”
Wingard further explained the program's broader objective, declaring, “This is more than a history lesson; it’s an invitation for students to see themselves as civic actors.” His words resonated with the students, sparking conversations about their roles in the community and encouraging them to think about how they can effect change.
Jaime Jarvis, Chair of the History Department at Bangor High School, also spoke about the program's significance. “Having these kinds of experiences enriches our students’ education,” she said. “It not only makes history come alive but also empowers our students to take ownership of their role in society. Programs like this remind them that they have a voice and can make a difference.”
The “Civics on the Road” program aims to empower students across Maine, making civics education accessible and relevant. With the continuation of these monthly visits, the Maine Department of Education hopes to inspire a new generation of informed and engaged citizens ready to take an active role in their communities.