On Monday, January 12, Hauppauge High School hosted its Fall 2025 Civics Day Exhibition in the High School Library, bringing together students, teachers, and administrators to celebrate civic learning, student voice, and active citizenship.
Twelfth grade students enrolled in Participation in Government presented their Civic Action Toolkits as part of the New York State Seal of Civic Readiness. Each student worked independently to research a civic issue, examine the responsibilities of citizenship, explore careers in public service, and design ways individuals and communities can participate meaningfully in civic life. The exhibition served as a culminating demonstration of their learning and provided an opportunity for students to explain their work to a live audience.
Throughout the day, students presented during multiple class periods, welcoming visitors from across the school. Administrators and faculty engaged students by asking questions and discussing their ideas. Many students also participated in the Civics Passport activity, collecting stamps as they visited different presentations and earning a pocket copy of the United States Constitution.
This year’s Civics Day carried special significance, as it coincided with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Students were encouraged to connect the founding principles of American democracy with modern issues of civic responsibility, public service, and community engagement. The result was a wide range of thoughtful projects that reflected both historical understanding and contemporary relevance.
The success of the exhibition was made possible through the dedication and collaboration of the Participation in Government teaching team, including Mrs. Kurrass, Ms. McFadzen, and Ms. Calandra. Their commitment to high quality civic instruction and student centered learning was evident throughout the day. Special recognition is also due to Mr. Kevin Matura, whose leadership, organization, and vision were central to the planning and execution of Civics Day. His work ensured that students had a meaningful, well structured, and authentic opportunity to showcase their civic learning.
The exhibition highlighted not only students’ knowledge of government and civic processes, but also their ability to communicate, think critically, and advocate for ideas they care about. From public policy and community service to voter participation and civic leadership, the projects demonstrated the many ways young people can contribute to a healthy democracy.
Events like Civics Day reinforce Hauppauge High School’s commitment to preparing students to be informed, engaged, and responsible citizens. By giving students an authentic platform to share their work, the exhibition turned classroom learning into real world civic practice, making history, government, and citizenship come alive for the entire school community.