𓆝 How to put it into practice
So now that we have our fundamentals, let's get down to the HOW!?!Have you ever had a strong opinion on what classes you take at school? Or perhaps a preference on when school starts and ends? Well, if you have even a thought, you also have the power to voice it at:
The school board meetings!
Want to know the regulation that the board committee has ons peaking at the meeting? Click below.
If factors like transportation, timing, or even anxiety about speaking in public are holding you back from participating, don't worry! Simply follow this link to the Board of Trustees' website, where you can easily email them directly based on your level of concern.
Can't make it to a meeting?!
Click on this site and access all of Mckinney ISD board meeting summaries!
Did you know that McKinney ISD has approximately 23,238 students? Out of that number, can you guess how many students attend these meetings on average? We can tell you that the number is less than 0.0559%! That’s about 13 out of 23,238 students! We can do better! Important votes are being cast at these monthly meetings, and you may not even be aware of them! The cool thing is, though, that it’s NOT happening behind closed doors! People (everyone) like you and I have access to these meetings!
Faith's board meeting testimony :3
haii!!
there was definitely an age range of people. mainly parents with their children. it’s low-key like a reality show. people are filming the little speeches and the people behind me were discussing every detail as if they were secret agents! lotsss of information about schools.
many people get to go up and speak about what their concerns are with the school district. You can say your likes, dislikes, and thoughts and concerns about the school system!!!! ⋆˚𝜗𝜚˚⋆
City council meetings!
How?:
By clicking on these link provided by the city of McKinney, you will access all the steps on how to jump into the action!
What?:
City council meetings are public gatherings where elected officials, aka city council members, come together to discuss and make decisions on local laws, policies, and issues that affect the community.These meetings give residents a chance to hear about important developments, voice concerns, and participate in shaping the future of their city.
Why?:
It’s your chance to hear what’s going down and even speak up about what matters to you!
Remember these are real people coming to speak to their elected officials some would describe these meetings like an episode straight out of a reality tv show because of the way some people do not hold back on their opinions!
When: First and third Tuesday of the month with Work Sessions beginning at 3 p.m. and Regular Sessions beginning at 6 p.m[updated February 2025]
Where: McKinney, Texas City Council meetings are held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, located at 401 E. Virginia St., McKinney, TX 75069
[updated February 2025]
ATTEND COMMUNITY EVENTS AND FORUMS
SO.. where’s the next function at?!
Well let us inform you!
Right in your community:
This link will direct you to the Mckinney calender of many public upcoming events in Mckinney.
These events include live bands, group painting, dance and fitness classes, and so much more!
As full-time students, it's easy to get caught up in assignments, deadlines, work, and planning for the future. Sometimes, the goals and hobbies you're passionate about get pushed to the side. But we’re here to remind you—it’s possible to manage your responsibilities and make time for the things that bring you joy!
So how does this all connect to civics? Many public events that you may not not even think about such as—like quilting workshops, ping pong tournaments, or creative clubs at your local library—are funded by local government programs, grants, or community initiatives supported by elected officials. By participating in these activities and appreciating their impact, you're engaging in civic life! You can even advocate for continued or increased funding by supporting representatives and policies that prioritize community enrichment.
[updated April 2025]
VOTING
"I Can't Vote, So I Can't Do Anything"
– SAID EVERY TEEN EVER!!If I had a dime for every time a fellow teenager under 18 said that, I’d have enough dimes to build a rocket, fly it to Neptune, and still afford snacks for the trip!!
What if we told you that you don’t need a ballot to make a difference! Here's how teens like you and I are able to use our voice.
STAYING EDUCATED
[ As it pertains to Collin County]
This site will take you to all the previous & upcoming elections in DIstrict 3.
Let’s say the next election is for the school board, and one candidate is pushing for more funding for sports programs but plans to cut funding from the arts department. If you know this ahead of time, and you're passionate about the arts, you can already start thinking about how their win will affect you. You might even want to talk to friends or teachers, or start a petition to make sure the arts stay funded. That way, you're prepared for the changes that could happen, instead of getting caught off guard when they take place.
Want more information?
This nonprofit that helps people get informed about elections and register to vote!
Listen guys,
You’re not gonna wake up on your 18th birthday magically knowing how government works, what your rights are, or who’s on the ballot. The human brains do not function like IPhone user IOS updates so If you're waiting for your frontal lobe to develop first… well, that’s not fully cooking until your around 25!
Things that will happen before then include:
🗳️ A new president (or two)
đź“ś Laws that impact your rights, your job, your education
⚖️ Court rulings that change real life
đź’¸ Budgets that decide what your community invests in
🌍 Global events with ripple effects on youIt’s easy to joke around like you know everything. But it feels way better when you’ve got facts, perspective, and a solid opinion to stand on.
Don’t let the constant waves of news and change wear you down or make you feel numb. You’re not desensitized.*So start now. Learn now. Care now. Because the world doesn’t pause while you figure it out.
Grab your surfboard—aka your growing knowledge of civics—and ride it all .the way in.