During the course of Civics the student will come to appreciate what it means to be a citizen and how you interact with society and government. The students will discover that the study of our (government) political and economic system is not only fascinating in itself but also empowering, for the knowledge you gain enables you to understand Current Events in their historical context. This knowledge will also allow the students to make reasoned political decisions, and to take effective political action when necessary. KANSAS HISTORY- This required course is one quarter long and taught during the 8th grade year. The goal of Kansas History is to give the student an opportunity to explore the rich culture history of Kansas. The focus of the course of study will be on people and their roles in the development of Kansas from the days of the Native Kansas prior to the Spanish explorations to present day Kansas. Students will be expected to also learn to use historical research methods and techniques.