Free Training, Real Research, Real Impact: Is Your School a Fit for SLICE?
Pam Siebert
Young people are the future of democracy — but research shows their trust in democratic institutions is at an all-time low. Educators are uniquely positioned to change that. NYLC has spent over 40 years helping teachers do exactly that through service-learning, youth leadership, and student voice. SLICE (Service-Learning in Civic Education) is the next step: a national study to document what works and bring it to scale.
NYLC is partnering with public high schools across the U.S. to implement high-quality service-learning in at least three core classes over two school years — with full training and ongoing support provided throughout.
Participation is straightforward. NYLC trains teachers in service-learning pedagogy, which they implement in their classroom. Following the district approval and parent consent process, educators and students complete brief surveys at the start and end of each semester. A research team from the University of Minnesota will also conduct interviews and focus groups to capture your experience in depth.
- Professional Development: Free, high-quality training from NYLC, with clock hours that count toward your state licensure requirements — at no cost to you or your school.
- National Community: Join a virtual network of educators nationwide who are doing this work, sharing what’s working, and building something together.
- Student Success: Give your students hands-on, community-connected learning backed by decades of evidence — and watch engagement follow.
- Shape the Field: Your classroom becomes part of the national conversation. Help define best practices for democratic education that will influence schools here and abroad.
Sites are now being selected for the 2026–27 school year. Find out what’s involved, what your school gains, and whether your high school qualifies by attending an informational webinar on the dates below. If you’re interested but can’t attend, contact us at psie...@nylc.org.
Apr. 1, 3:30 pm CT
Apr. 16, 8:30 am CT
May 6, 11:30 am CT
Pam Siebert (she/her/hers)
VP of Community Impact & Evaluation
National Youth Leadership Council
