high school leaders internships

The Democracy Matters High School Leaders program is an internship for high school students of any grade. Interns raise awareness at their school about voting, democracy, and social justice issues. Supported by DM staff and DM materials, interns develop leadership and organizing skills including outreach, public speaking, and writing. Interns receive a certificate of achievement and a letter from Democracy Matters to send to colleges and universities of their choice. Being a high school advocate is a first step towards becoming a paid DM intern in college. More than one student can become a DM Leader at their high school.

DM Leader Internship:

• Find a teacher to serve as an advisor to supervise and sign off on your progress.

• Organize educational events at your school thorugh an assembly, class, discussions, or a DM student club focused on protecting and strengthening our democracy. Possible activities include pre-registering students to vote, contacting elected officials holding a “mock” election, inviting expert speakers and elected officials to educate students on important social issues.

• Write a two-page paper on a social justice issue of your choice.

• Coordinate a group of students outside of school to engage in community outreach programs like voter registration, support for democracy, and other issues.

DM Leader Resources:

• Subscriptions to the DM’s monthly E-News and “Justice on My Mind.”

• DM Materials and supplies (pins, movies, flyers, stickers, etc.)

• Support and mentoring by Democracy Matters experienced staff.

• Democracy Matters Speakers Bureau.

• Monthly dialogue with DM interns nationwide.

Don’t wait until college to become a politically active leader!

Become advocate for change today with DM.