San Antonio, Texas, January 17, 2026
The 8th Annual Speak Up Speak Out Civics Fair held in San Antonio saw around 500 middle and high school students present innovative projects aimed at solving community challenges. Topics included mental health, homelessness, and recycling initiatives, with top teams earning opportunities to advance to state-level competitions for grant funding. The event illustrates the commitment of youth to civic engagement and fostering positive change in their community.
San Antonio Students Present Civic Improvement Ideas at 8th Annual Speak Up Speak Out Civics Fair
San Antonio, Texas – On January 16, 2026, approximately 500 middle and high school students gathered at Our Lady of the Lake University to participate in the 8th annual Speak Up Speak Out Civics Fair. Organized by CAST Schools, the event showcased student-driven projects aimed at enhancing the San Antonio community.
Student Projects Address Community Issues
The fair featured a diverse range of topics, including mental health, CPR education, women’s health, homelessness, and green spaces. Students collaborated to identify local challenges and proposed actionable solutions, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to civic engagement and problem-solving. For instance, Randolph High School students presented a project focused on flood prevention awareness, inspired by a tragic local incident. La Vernia Middle School students addressed recycling initiatives, emphasizing the need for accessible recycling facilities in schools and public events.
Recognition and Future Opportunities
Judges evaluated the presentations, posing practical questions to assess feasibility and impact. The top-performing teams from both middle and high school categories earned the opportunity to advance to the state competition at the University of Texas at Austin. Winners at the state level will receive grant funding to implement their projects locally, equipping them with not only recognition but also vital resources to bring their innovative ideas to life.
Background on the Civics Fair
The Speak Up Speak Out Civics Fair is an annual event that encourages students to engage in civic responsibility by developing projects that address community issues. It provides a platform for young individuals to collaborate, research, and present solutions, fostering a sense of community involvement and leadership. This initiative showcases the potential of our youth to effect positive change and reinforces the importance of civic participation in a thriving democratic society.
About Our Lady of the Lake University
Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) is a private Catholic institution located in San Antonio, Texas. OLLU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs and serves as a venue for various community events, including the Speak Up Speak Out Civics Fair. As a hub for educational pursuits and community outreach, OLLU plays a pivotal role in nurturing local talent and fostering community collaboration.
Key Takeaways
The Speak Up Speak Out Civics Fair not only highlights the creative solutions middle and high school students propose for pressing community issues, but it also cultivates a sense of initiative among future generations. By advancing to state-level competitions and receiving grant funding, participants are empowered to take their innovative ideas and implement them locally, potentially spurring economic growth and community improvement.
Encouraging local youth to engage in civic activities and fostering this spirit of entrepreneurship sets a strong foundation for San Antonio’s future. It is crucial for the community to support these initiatives, as they not only benefit the individuals involved but also enhance the overall quality of life in San Antonio.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Speak Up Speak Out Civics Fair?
- The Speak Up Speak Out Civics Fair is an annual event that encourages students to engage in civic responsibility by developing projects that address community issues. It provides a platform for young individuals to collaborate, research, and present solutions, fostering a sense of community involvement and leadership.
- When and where was the 8th annual Civics Fair held?
- The 8th annual Speak Up Speak Out Civics Fair took place on January 16, 2026, at Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, Texas.
- What types of projects did students present?
- Students presented projects on various topics, including mental health, CPR education, women’s health, homelessness, and green spaces, aiming to address and improve these community issues.
- How are the winning projects recognized?
- The top-performing teams from both middle and high school categories earned the opportunity to advance to the state competition at the University of Texas at Austin. Winners at the state level will receive grant funding to implement their projects locally.
- Who organized the Civics Fair?
- The event was organized by CAST Schools, an educational organization dedicated to fostering civic engagement among students.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Date | January 16, 2026 |
| Location | Our Lady of the Lake University, San Antonio, Texas |
| Participants | Approximately 500 middle and high school students |
| Organizers | CAST Schools |
| Project Topics | Mental health, CPR education, women’s health, homelessness, green spaces |
| Recognition | Top teams advance to state competition at UT Austin; state winners receive grant funding |
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