About Ethan Schwarz
My name is Ethan Schwarz, and I am a senior at Syosset High School on Long Island, New York. I am passionate about politics, public service, and civic engagement. Whether I’m leading our school’s Political Science Club, competing in congressional debate, or helping students register to vote, I’m always looking for ways to make a meaningful impact for young people. Outside the classroom, I volunteer with organizations that promote youth voices, such as March for Our Lives, or the Nassau County Youth Council. I also enjoy playing the clarinet in the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra.
About Civics For Youth
The aim of Civics For Youth is to educate children, ages 10-14, about the political system and the workings of government, in a non-partisan way. By learning how objectives are accomplished in the American system, Civics For Youth will empower others to use their voices in a constructive and proactive way. Civics For Youth is a free three-part workshop series. Schools and organizations can register for the following full series or individual sessions:
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1. Basic Civics
In workshop one, students will learn about the basis of the US Constitution, such as who created it, why it was created, and its purpose. Students will also learn about the three branches of the federal government, and real world actions done by those in politics to ensure a functioning government. Finally, we will explore the media’s role in government, and how it impacts the civic process. After a short presentation, students will partake in Kahoot trivia, games, and handout sheet activities.
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2. Your Vote is Your Voice
In workshop two, students will learn about who can vote in the United States and the types of elections at different levels of government. Students will also learn about how they can register to vote. Finally, students will learn the impact that voting has in the democratic process and why voting matters. After a short presentation, students will partake in Kahoot trivia, a “build-a-ballot” game, mock campaign speeches, and handout sheet activities.
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3. Fact Finding
In workshop three, students will learn about what misinformation and disinformation are and the differences between them. Students will also learn how to discern false information that is prevalent online. Finally, students will learn how to handle online misinformation, and how to critically process the information they consume. After a short presentation, students will partake in a mock debate, and a “fact or fiction” game.
