Join us for a panel discussion exploring the current state of civics education in North Carolina and why strong, nonpartisan civic learning is essential to a healthy democracy. This session will provide background, research, and context to help League members better understand the landscape of civics education and its impact on civic participation.
Drawing on the work of the North Carolina Civics Coalition and Generation Nation, as well as insights from the series
Civics Unlearned by Sara Michael of Carolina Public Press, the session will examine how gaps in civics education — driven by limited instructional time, competing academic priorities, and increasing polarization — affect students’ understanding of government and civic life. Participants will gain a clearer picture of how statewide collaboration and community-based efforts can help build informed, engaged citizens and strengthen civic power across North Carolina.
Amy Farrell
As the Executive Director with Generation Nation, an agency working to develop the new generation of civic leaders, Amy lends her talents as an innovative leader, a social entrepreneur, who among other things is experienced in nonprofit leadership, program development, K-12 education, civic literacy, public affairs, and business management. She is a connector who effectively builds, leverages and supports relationships among organizations, people, and ideas.
Sara Baysinger
Sara has been a member of the LWVNC State Board since 2023, and an active participant with the Voter Services, Education, and Civics 101 Action Teams at her local League in Charlotte Mecklenburg.
Sara’s passion for educational issues stems from having grown up in a family with three generations of teachers. In her professional life, Sara has served as an editor, writer, project director and small business owner. The last of which was as co-owner of Mice at Play, LLC in New York—a community of women who challenge themselves to step out of their comfort zones to “play” and dare though various activities, classes, and readings. She has two grown sons and lives in Charlotte with her husband and their sweet dog, Lucy.
Sarah Michels
Sarah Michels is an elections and legislative reporter for Carolina Public Press, a statewide, digital news outlet focused on covering the stories — and angles— others aren't. She recently reported a three-part series called Civics Unlearned that explores how conflicting priorities and inconsistent instruction have led to the neglect of civic education in schools, which in turn has contributed to a disengaged North Carolina electorate. Before finding a home in the Raleigh statehouse, Michels worked as a political reporter in her Kentucky hometown.