New York City Public Schools Announces a Significant Rise in Student Participation in the State Seal of Civic Readiness
NEW YORK - New York City Public Schools (NYCPS) today announced a significant rise in student participation in the New York State Seal of Civic Readiness (NYSSCR), reflecting remarkable year-on-year growth and increased engagement across schools.
For the graduating class of 2024-25, an impressive 7,855 students earned the Seal of Civic Readiness, a 72 % increase from the 4,567 students in 2023-24, and a 1121% surge from just 643 students in its first year of implementation, 2021-22. This substantial growth not only underscores the program’s effectiveness but also reflects its alignment with the aspirations and needs of today’s students. Correspondingly, the number of schools offering the program has grown dramatically from 31 schools in 2021-22 to 166 in 2024-25, further cementing the Seal as a transformative citywide initiative.
“This is a moment of celebration,” said Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos. “Our students are confidently stepping into their roles as informed, engaged leaders, and that’s exactly what education in our city should empower them to do. The Seal of Civic Readiness isn’t just a diploma distinction; it’s a springboard for leadership, service, and real-world impact.”
NYSSCR is a distinction on student diplomas that formally recognizes civic knowledge and participation through experiential learning and the engagement of youth voice, leadership, and action. It signals to employers and post-secondary institutions that the student has developed the essential skills and understanding required to be active, engaged members of their communities and society. In addition to serving as an honorific diploma endorsement, the Seal also functions as a graduation pathway, offering an alternative to the fifth Regents exam for both Regents and Local diplomas
By fostering civic understanding and empowering students to apply their knowledge in meaningful ways, the Seal of Civic Readiness helps open doors to conversations, opportunities, and careers that might otherwise be out of reach. Moreover, it equips students with the tools to engage thoughtfully and responsibly in democratic processes, preparing them to be informed and active citizens long after graduation.
"Seeing our students and teachers collaborate together so that students earn the Seal of Civic Readiness has been incredibly rewarding,” said Principal Sarah Scrogin. “Civics brings learning to life and challenges students to think critically, lead with purpose, and engage with the world around them. We’re not just preparing them for college or careers, we’re preparing them for the future by ensuring they are thoughtful, active citizens of our school, community and world.”
“The Seal of Civic Readiness perfectly aligns with our school’s mission of preparing grads to be ‘actively engaged as voters, jurors, and justice-minded participants in a democratic society,’” noted Principal Suzy Ort. “We are grateful for the opportunity to have their preparation formally honored through the bestowing of the Seal of Civic Readiness, which we confer at graduation. In the past year, we doubled the number of students earning the seal and hope to achieve 100% participation in our senior class over the next couple of years. Of all the goals and purposes of schools, civic preparation is arguably #1 in importance and the Seal guides our work in this regard.”
Roshny Saha, a recent high school graduate commented, “The Seal of Civic Readiness allowed me to see that to make a difference in this world, it is up to us. It has inspired me to help anybody in need in any way I can.”
Civic education has the power to strengthen the connections between schools, students, families, civic leaders, organizations, and community partners. Communities are the lifeblood of NYCPS, and by fostering a deeper understanding of civic responsibility, this program promotes equity, inclusivity, diversity, and fairness.
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Contact: Chancellor’s Press Office press@schools.nyc.gov