Project Citizen helps middle and high school students become involved in their local and state governments in addition to monitoring and influencing public policy. Participants (either from a school or community group) find a problem in their community. They create a portfolio based on their research, and then make a plan to resolve the issue. Once they have a solid plan, they are ready to focus on getting their plan adopted by their local or state government. Some participants showcase their project at the Missouri State Project Citizen Showcase, usually held the first Monday in March at the State Capitol, where one project is selected to represent the state at the national level.

Recognized by the National Council of State Legislators as the best program to teach middle school and high school students about local government, this program has a multi-disciplinary approach that teachers value. Both the Center for Civic Education and The Missouri Bar provide professional development opportunities for Project Citizen and participating teachers receive a free classroom set of books.

Click here for photos of the 2008 Project Citizen Showcase!