As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Maryland educators, students, and community partners are
As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Maryland educators, students, and community partners are coming together to explore what our founding ideals mean in practice today.
The 2026 Maryland Civic Education & Engagement Leadership Summit centers the Declaration as a living civic text, one that challenges each generation to strengthen democracy through knowledge, skills, service, and shared responsibility.
A Day to Learn, Connect, and Act
This full-day Summit is designed especially for teachers, school leaders, and civic practitioners, students, parents, and community members. Participants will engage in interactive conversations, practical workshops, student-led showcases, and meaningful networking across schools, organizations, and communities.
You can expect:
- Interactive workshops on civics, history, media literacy, and service learning
- A student Civics & Service Slam and Showcase highlighting youth leadership
- Space to connect with community organizations and partners
- Practical ideas you can bring back to classrooms, schools, and communities
Summit Focus Areas
- Civics & Democratic Skills: civil discourse, media literacy, rights and responsibilities, advocacy, and public problem-solving
- History & Founding Ideals: the Declaration of Independence in action, primary sources, Maryland’s civic story
- Service & Community Engagement: service-learning, youth leadership, environmental and community-rooted civic action
Whether you are a classroom teacher, student leader, nonprofit partner, parent, or community member, this Summit offers a shared space to learn together and recommit to the work of democracy.
Questions about registration, accessibility, or participation options?
Email info@mdcivics.org