Why local political literacy?

Local political literacy is vital because the decisions made in town halls, school boards, and county governments often shape our daily lives more directly than national policies. Local officials determine how schools are funded and run, how tax dollars are allocated, and how community services are maintained, yet these processes frequently go unnoticed. While national politics tends to capture the spotlight, especially among younger generations, this focus has left many students and first-time voters underinformed about the structures and choices that most immediately impact their education, property taxes, and neighborhood resources. The result is a widening gap: young people are increasingly engaged in national debates but disconnected from the local decisions that govern the quality of their schools, the safety of their communities, and the fairness of their tax systems. Strengthening awareness and understanding at the local level ensures that citizens—especially the rising generation—are better equipped to participate meaningfully in shaping the communities they call home.