What Could Go Right? Whatever Happened to Civics? with Nick Capodice
Oct 1, 2025
Join Nick Capodice, co-host of Civics 101, as he dives into the critical state of civics education. He discusses the alarming decline in civics funding and the increasing polarization in American politics. Hear why young people often feel disconnected from voting and how civics can be redefined as everyday practices. Nick shares innovative ways Civics 101 engages students and emphasizes the importance of civil conversations and understanding historical context. Discover practical resources to empower civic participation!
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President Does Not Make Laws
- Many Americans confuse executive actions with laws and wrongly attribute lawmaking to the president.
- This misconception reflects a deeper civic-education gap about separation of powers.
Film Screening Sparks Civic Lesson
- Nick describes screening Mr. Smith Goes to Washington with his group and notes the film never mentions the president.
- He uses the film to show how public understanding of executive power has shifted.
Civics Funding Versus Polarization
- Federal spending per student on civics plummeted compared with STEM, contributing to widespread civic ignorance.
- Rising political polarization plus lower civics funding creates a perfect storm for civic misunderstanding.
