We Promote and Protect Our Democracy.
The Massachusetts Center for Civic Education (MACCE) is a private, non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to strengthening civic education in Massachusetts’ public and private schools and communities. Our programs are delivered in partnership with a statewide network of educators, civic leaders, and public and private sector organizations committed to preparing informed and engaged citizens.
MACCE became a 501(c)(3) organization in 2015 to ensure the continued presence and growth of nationally recognized Center for Civic Education programs across the Commonwealth.
Our Mission
The mission of the Massachusetts Center for Civic Education is to develop generations of responsible, educated, and involved members of society by promoting civic learning, active engagement, and significant contributions to democracy.
History of Our Programs
The We the People program of the Center for Civic Education was launched in 1987 in conjunction with the bicentennial of the United States Constitution. Massachusetts joined the program at its inception and has remained actively involved for more than three decades. Since that time, We the People has been implemented in more than 200 schools across the Commonwealth.
In 1993, Project Citizen was introduced as a companion program, expanding opportunities for students to apply their civic knowledge through real-world engagement. Together, these programs represent the core pillars of civic education: a strong understanding of the American constitutional system through We the People, and meaningful participation in government at the local, state, and national levels through Project Citizen.
Since 2011, federal funding for these programs has ceased, resulting in fewer professional development opportunities for educators. Despite these challenges, the Massachusetts We the People state competition and the Project Citizen state showcase have continued through the commitment of teachers, coordinators, and dedicated volunteers.
MACCE is working to strengthen, sustain, and revitalize these vital civic education programs throughout the Commonwealth.