About Us
The Leader in Civics Education
New Hampshire Civics is the only organization in the Granite State that teaches civics for free to people of all ages, political views and zip codes. Our programs help people understand how democracy works, how to find the facts, and how to be good and active citizens. Committed to non-partisanship, we believe people of varied perspectives and ages deserve high-quality information, hands-on learning that lasts, and a confidence that their voice matters.
This kind of civics education is important for all Americans, but is even more so here in New Hampshire because of our role in the national political arena. NH has an obligation to prepare its citizens especially well because of its role in selecting national leaders.
Our mission is to develop, nurture, and maintain an informed, engaged, and civil New Hampshire citizenry. Read our full vision statement here.
We were formerly known as the NH Institute for Civics Education. Learn more about our history here.
Fulfilling Our Mission
Every year, NH Civics plans a number of events and programs devoted to fulfilling our mission including free educator professional development, student programming, public lectures, and events for the general public. Learn more below.
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Public Programs
We bring national civic leaders to NH through our William W. Treat Lecture series past speakers include Justice David Souter and Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, United States Attorney General Merrick Garland, General James Mattis, former Solicitors General Gregory Garre & Neal Katyal, and New York Times journalist Cecilia Kang.
Our NH Community Conversations and Lights, Camera, Civics! make civics accessible and engaging to the general public.
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Programs & Resources for Teachers and Students
We bring national civics education leaders to our state and feature master NH teachers because we know that students who have access to high-quality civics education are more likely to:
- Vote and discuss politics at home
- Volunteer and work on community issues
- Speak publicly and communicate with elected representatives
High-quality civics education strengthens skills needed in all academic areas such as critical thinking, civil debate, and classroom confidence. Research has also shown that these programs contribute to the development of school climates that are safe, inclusive, and respectful and have a positive impact on high school graduation rates. Read more about our programs for teachers and students here.
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Civics Policy Work
We convene the NH Civic Learning Coalition, a nonpartisan taskforce of 40 stakeholders including educators, students, parents and civic leaders from across the Granite State.
Looking Ahead: The Promise of Civics Education
NH Civics is committed to expanding our impact exponentially across the state by 2026. Learn more about our plan for growth and how you can support us here.
Learn More in Our Annual Reports:
Anti-Racism
NH Civics advocates for the core principles expressed in our country’s fundamental documents, which include: the democratic rule of law; insistence on due process; respect for individual rights; promotion of the general welfare; and insistence on equal protection.
Anti-Discrimination Policy
NH Civics does not unlawfully discriminate internally (in its administrative and program operations) or externally (in the provision of services) on the basis of race, political orientation, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, or mental or physical disability or any other status prohibited by applicable law.
Get Involved
Your voice and support are important
With your support, our mission to develop, nurture, and maintain an informed, engaged, and civil New Hampshire citizenry is within our reach.