Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Kentucky Civic Seal?

A: The Kentucky Civic Seal program recognizes Kentucky students at all levels (elementary, middle, and high schoolers) who demonstrate exceptional civic performance through exhibiting their understanding, application, and reflection upon: local, state, and national governance; commitment to democratic principles and promoting the common good; informed participation in civic spaces; and reflection upon their role in modern civic life. The seal may be earned at each of the three grade-band commencements.

Q: Who can participate in the Civic Seal Program? 

A: The program is open to all K-12 students in Kentucky. A local BOE, school/district, or governing board may determine if and how students become eligible to earn a local Kentucky Civic Seal based on evidence that students show exceptional civic performance in an advanced level of demonstration of the Kentucky Academic Standards for Social Studies. The seal program is an opportunity for students to go above-and-beyond the KAS for Social Studies in demonstrating good citizenship according to four identified elements. Criteria for each element are determined at the BOE/school/district level, and approved by the Advisory Board. In the event the school district does not have a program, a district official can apply directly to the advisory board for individual students.

Q: What are possible criteria for eligibility?

A: To determine a student’s eligibility to earn a Kentucky Civic Seal, districts and schools may consider the following criteria and artifacts (i.e., demonstrations) for each of the four core elements: (1) Civic Engagement Project; (2) Government and Democratic Principles; (3) Digital Citizenship; and (4) Self-Reflection. 

Note: Although a single artifact may demonstrate several, or all, of the four core elements, earning the seal should be reflective of regular student practices, rather than just a one-and-done project.

For more specific criteria and examples, visit the respective tabs on the navigation menu. 

Q: How might students be recognized for attaining the local Kentucky Civic Seal?

A: Upon request from a board-registered program, the Secretary of State will send out earned seals. Student commendations may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Indication of the Seal on transcript/e-transcript (Infinite Campus and Parchment???),

• Special seal on the diploma,

• Graduation cord or sash for the ceremony,

• Award ceremony for certificate, and/or

• Verbal or written recognition in the graduation/commencement program or ceremony.

Q: Do students need to compile a portfolio? 

A: Not necessarily! The methods by which students demonstrate civic seal requirements is at the discretion of the local board of education. 

Q: When and where do applications need to be submitted?

A: Use the link Civic Seal Application on the navigation menu to submit student names and work for approval. The announcement for the 2024-2025 application process will be made soon!