Jessica J. Tang

As a way of sowing seeds for future involvement in the political process, Tang proposed the development of "Civics in Action: Making the Changes We Want to See" program to empower students with the knowledge, skills and experience that inspire civic action. Tang believes youth have great potential to participate and reenergize citizenship in the 21st century. It's just a matter of drawing out that energy and potential. To that end, her program provides students at Patrick F. Gavin Middle School an opportunity to address issues and problems seen in their school, community and the environment. Students identify and research issues, debate the strengths and potential challenges of finding practical solutions to them and come up with a plan of action. Through Tang's program, students are gaining the necessary skills to engage in solving school and community issues. Last school year, students successfully campaigned to increase recycling and reduce littering. They also participated in the creation of a new teen center. "Civics in Action" will continue to provide students with hands-on experiences so they can make changes in their school and in their community. Tang is a resident of Boston.