The Civility Framework
Keep   It   R E A L

Keep It — Kindness · Integrity · Respect · Empathy · Agreements · Listening

Students Can Lead
The Civility Movement

Teaching Civility must be embedded in the teaching of Social Studies and Civics. We believe that students can lead the Civility Movement across America.

In a purposely non-partisan way, we are bringing back Civility. We are convening students from around the country to ask Americans of all ages to look themselves in the mirror.

We are bringing forth a solution to challenge the voices of the uncivil.

For Schools & Educators
Schools should consider renaming Civics and Social Studies courses as Civics and Civility. It is not enough to teach about the issues facing Americans — we must also teach students to engage in difficult conversations so that all parties remain at the table.

"We are convening students from around the country to ask Americans of all ages to look themselves in the mirror and ask:

What side of this discussion do you want to be on —
the Civil side, or the Uncivil side?"

The Keep It REAL
Civility & Discourse Framework

Each letter stands for a principle. Together, they transform disagreement into dialogue.

K
Kindness

Approach every conversation with warmth and good will — even when you disagree. Kindness is the choice to connect rather than confront.

I
Integrity

Speak honestly and without hidden agendas. Integrity builds the trust that makes real conversation possible.

R
Respect

Honor every person's dignity — regardless of their politics or background. Respect keeps everyone at the table, where solutions are made.

E
Empathy

Seek to understand where others are coming from before asserting your own view. Empathy doesn't require agreement — it requires attention.

A
Agreements

The goal is finding common ground. Agreements are reached when everyone is working toward shared outcomes — not scoring points.

L
Listening

Truly hear others — not just waiting for your turn to speak. Active listening is the most underrated civic skill we can teach.

Join The Civility Movement

Embed Civility into Civics education. Register your school and join the New Hampshire schools already using the Keep It REAL framework.