Research

Supported by a $511,000 grant from the US Department of Education, this three-year initiative strengthens civic education and community engagement by supporting 75 middle school social studies and English language arts teachers in learning about American democracy and strategies for classroom discussion. We estimate that 4,500 students in North Carolina will be impacted. The program advances four primary goals: deepening educators’ mastery of American history and government, boosting their confidence in evidence-based discussion strategies, building a sustainable professional learning network, and expanding local civic awareness. Key activities include an intensive week-long summer seminar on foundational principles, year-long monthly Communities of Practice cohort meetings, and an open-access Online Toolkit and Discussion Engagement Network (D.E.N.). Additionally, the initiative brings civic discourse directly to the public through eight “Dining with Democracy” events, bringing together over 1,000 students and family members to discuss public issues.

PI: Paula McAvoy

Co-PIs: Christy Byrd, Chad Hoggan, Carl Young

Supported by a $9,838 Catalyst Grant from the Friday Institute at NCSU, this project extends the work of this team’s three-year federal grant by developing a pilot study investigating the civic potential of engaging school communities in structured intergenerational discussion. The Catalyst Grant will allow the project team to develop research tools, such as surveys, observation protocols and interview protocols, and pilot them. By increasing research capacity and collaboration within this initiative, the project will position both units to co-develop competitive grant proposals targeting funders with a demonstrated interest in civic education and research-practice partnerships. 

Research team: Kevin Winn, Paula McAvoy, Christy Byrd

This initiative will equip 100 North Carolina teen ambassadors with the skills to teach storytelling techniques to their younger peers through a research-based curriculum will foster a sense of belonging, agency, and self-reflection while strengthening collaborative skills essential for college and career readiness. By positioning teens as both learners and educators, the initiative guides participants through the process of identifying issues of public concern—such as mental health or school climate—and transforming those ideas into purposeful civic action. Grounded in the 4-H Thriving Model and the Beyond Ready framework, the program aims to cultivate character and leadership while ensuring college and career readiness, ultimately preparing youth to be active contributors to the common good.

Research team: Maru Gonzalez, Christy Byrd