Dear Friends of of the Center for Civic Education:
At the end of a year filled with extraordinary hardship and uncertainty, it’s important to glance backward and take stock of what these disruptions mean for our work in civic education. The pandemic has changed how we live and work, and for many of us, the work of civic education has depended on reliable internet connections for remote learning and virtual meetings.
My first six months as president of the Center for Civic Education have brought many challenges and also incredible opportunities. The election created renewed urgency around the work we do together to empower students and communities through civic and constitutional education. I have been inspired by so many of the teachers, students, and community leaders in our network who have continued this vital work in a moment of profound crisis.
I strongly believe that together we will be able to take advantage of amazing opportunities in 2021 to strengthen our work, promote our shared values, and bring civic education to more communities than ever. Our democracy depends on the work each of you does, and the Center remains committed to doing what we can to strengthen our democracy.
I am proud to stand with all of you at this critical time, and I believe fervently that the mission of teaching civic virtue and democratic practice is as important to the wellbeing of our society as ever. I want to wish you all a happy holiday and my warmest wishes for a healthy, safe, and rewarding new year!
Christopher R. Riano
President
Center for Civic Education
