A Day to Learn, Connect, and Act

As we approach the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this Summit offers an opportunity to reflect on the responsibilities of self-government, gain practical strategies you can use immediately, and build relationships that strengthen civic life across Maryland.

The 2026 Maryland Civic Education & Engagement Leadership Summit is a hands-on, intergenerational gathering where educators, students, parents, civic organizations, and community members learn together and explore how the ideals of the Declaration connect to the civic questions and opportunities people face today.

Participants will engage in interactive conversations, practical workshops, and a student-led project showcase, with intentional space to connect across schools, organizations, and communities. Workshops will feature ready-to-use tools and models from Maryland educators and partners, including iCivics, Maryland Humanities, Maryland Public Television, Project Citizen, and others.

Focus areas include:

• Civics & Democratic Skills: Practicing Democracy Together

• History & Founding Ideals: The Declaration in Action

• Service & Community Engagement: Turning Values into Action

Civics & Service Slam and Student Showcase

Open to Students

Students are also invited to participate through two youth-centered formats designed to highlight student voice and leadership:

• Civics & Service Slam: A short, spoken presentation where students share a civic, service, or leadership experience that mattered to them.

• Student Showcase: A poster or slide-based display where students share projects and talk informally with Summit participants.

These formats offer supportive, engaging ways for students to share their work and learn from educators and community partners.

Apply to participate in the youth-centered formats: Student Participation Form

Organization Tabling

Civic organizations, nonprofits, museums, libraries, higher education partners, and community groups are invited to table at the Summit, connect with participants, and share resources. Organizations interested in sponsorship opportunities or deeper partnership are encouraged to reach out to explore options.

Interested in tabling at the Summit? Organization Tabling Form

Sponsorship Opportunities

We invite organizations and community partners to support the 2026 Maryland Civic Education & Engagement Leadership Summit through sponsorship. To explore opportunities, please complete the Sponsorship Interest Form or contact Genie Massey at genie@mdcivics.org.

For questions please contact info@mdcivics.org.

Join us as we reflect on the ideals of the Declaration, elevate student leadership, and strengthen the civic infrastructure that will carry democracy forward for the next 250 years.