Glen Allen HS students are featured in a new PBS documentary series

A new four-part documentary series from Retro Report on PBS titled Citizen Nation follows high school students from across the United States – including students from Glen Allen High School – as they compete in the nation’s premier civics competition. “We the people.”

Virginia State Senator Schuyler VanValkenburg (D-16) and some of his students from Glen Allen High School, as well as others from Maggie L. Walker High School in Richmond, will star in the new series, which premieres on Tuesday, October. 8:00 9:00 p.m. EST on PBS.

The series follows high school students in eight states as they grapple with critical questions about democracy for 10 months. As students advance through regional and state competitions, answering congressional hearing-style challenges from the judges, they reveal their knowledge of the U.S. Constitution and politics and grapple with what it means to be a citizen today.​

“As a legislator and educator, I see firsthand the profound impact civics education can have in shaping the next generation of engaged citizens,” VanValkenburg said. “At a time when the very foundations of our democracy are being tested, these young people demonstrate what it means to wrestle with big ideas, question assumptions and stand up for what they believe in. They remind us that democracy is not a spectator sport, it is something in which we actively participate. When I see their passion, intelligence and commitment, I am reminded that the future of this country is in very capable hands.”

The second episode will premiere on Tuesday, October 15, the third on Tuesday, October 22 and the fourth on October 29, each at the same time from 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.