Project Citizen is a program developed by the Center for Civic Education and funded by the U.S. Department of Education under the Education for Democracy Act approved by the U.S. Congress. The program is co-sponsored by the National Conference of State Legislatures.

In South Dakota, classes of upper elementary, middle, and high school students are invited to participate in South Dakota Project Citizen (SDPC).  Project Citizen is an issues-centered  civic education program for grades 5th-12th that promotes competent and responsible participation in local and state government.  It helps teachers and students understand public policy and to use this understanding to create change in their communities.  The intent of SDPC is to motivate and enable young people to enjoy the rights and accept the responsibilities of citizenship.

South Dakota Project Citizen helps students learn how to express their opinions, how to decide which level of government and which agency is most appropriate for dealing with problems they identify, and how to influence policy decisions at that level. Students in a classroom work cooperatively with each other and with teachers and adult volunteers as they identify a problem to study, gather information, examine solutions, develop public policy positions, and create action plans. The results of the class's work are displayed in a four panel portfolio and documentation binder which may be presented to other classes, community groups, or civically-minded people. The portfolio and binder may also be entered in the South Dakota State Showcase.

Students learn how to analyze problems, monitor proposed policy alternatives, and develop portfolios to demonstrate their understanding of problems of concern to their class. The program actively encourages interaction among students, their parents, and members of the community. For more information about  South Dakota Project Citizen contact, DeVee Dietz, Director, Civic Education Programs, Chiesman Center for Democracy.