Strengthening democracy by preparing all students for civic life
DemocracyReady NY is a nonpartisan, multigenerational, statewide coalition working to ensure high-quality civic learning reaches all students regardless of zip code.
Invest in Civic Education | Support DemocracyReady NY
Every New York student needs the tools to become an informed voter, active civic participant, and motivated community leader. But right now, too many young people leave school unprepared for the responsibilities that come with sustaining our democracy – the lack the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to navigate today’s complex information landscape and make informed decisions about their future.
This challenge touches every corner of the state—urban, suburban, and rural areas alike—across all political lines.
Your support helps us:
Expand access to civic learning across all grades, preK–12
Strengthen hands-on civic learning opportunities like the Seal of Civic Readiness
Combat misinformation by advancing media, AI, and digital literacy statewide
Sustain youth leadership and intergenerational advocacy
Invest in New York’s students—and in the future of our democracy.
Youth aged 16-21 throughout New York State are invited to join DemocracyReady NY. Apply today to be part of the 2025-26 Youth Cohort.
Read Our Latest Report
Civic Learning in the Early Grades Is a Whole-Child, Whole-School Endeavor: Key Principles for Fostering Civic Education in the Elementary Years
Our P-12 schools have a vital role in fostering students who can safeguard our democracy and steward our nation toward a greater realization of its democratic values. This responsibility is more important than ever today in the face of the erosion of democratic institutions, changing school demographics, and new technologies. Yet, civic education in the early grades, in particular, has been deprioritized. Our latest report explores how educators and policymakers can prioritize civic learning in the early years.
Our Approach
We unite New Yorkers statewide to strengthen investment, policy, and practice to ensure all schools prepare their students for their civic responsibilities.
Our Activities
We work together to drive change to ensure all New York schools are fully equipped and supported to meet their students’ civic-learning needs.
