Grade 8 Civics: Who Wants to Be… an Agent of Change?

Databases make it easy to explore specific topics with trustworthy content from expert sources. All library databases can be found on our website. 

Explore the linked topic guides and articles below to learn about specific issues.

• Remember to select a topic that connects to a specific level of government—school, town, state, national, or international.
• If you need it, the password for Gale is wildcats

Helpful Websites for Local and MA State Topics

Most databases don’t cover local or state-specific issues in detail. For those topics, reliable websites are often better places to start. Here are a few that can help you research problems in Weston or across Massachusetts:

• Weston Town Website – Local government services, news, recycling, and community programs.

• Weston Public Schools – For school-related policies, curriculum, and leadership.

• Mass.gov – The Commonwealth’s official site. Search for topics like housing, education, health, and environment.

• MA Department of Public Health – For info on mental health, substance use, and school health.

• MA Executive Office of Energy & Environment – Recycling, climate action, clean energy in Massachusetts.

• MA Department of Education—The state agency responsible for overseeing K-12 education and policies in Massachusetts.

• Massachusetts Legislature – Find state bills and your state rep. Great for connecting your issue to current laws.

Working on a town or state issue?
Use the databases for background information, but you’ll also need to explore government websites to find up-to-date details, policies, or contacts that affect Weston or Massachusetts.