Citizenship Lesson From the Top

"Many of these students are not citizens, but they know more about the process than a lot of adults," he said.

The students are enrolled in an after-school course sponsored by Liberty's Promise, an Alexandria-based nonprofit group that teaches young immigrants about their roles as future citizens. In most cases, an immigrant must be at least 18 and have lived in the United States for five years to apply for citizenship. If the teen immigrant is married to a citizen, he or she has only to have lived in the United States for three years.

As part of the program, the teenagers learn about U.S. history and citizenship responsibilities. They take field trips, meet elected leaders and participate in community service projects.

Aguilar opened the after-school discussion with a DVD presentation, then led the group in a discussion about what it means to be an American. He also posed questions.

"What unites us?" he asked.

The students sat quietly as they pondered the question. Finally Rachid Louis, an 18-year-old senior, spoke.

"We all want a better life," he said. "And freedom."

Aguilar told the students that although America embraces different cultures, it is important for them to learn English, be involved in their communities and understand American political values.

He emphasized that they should play an important role within their families.

"Immigrant students in the U.S. play an important role because you help the first generation -- your parents -- navigate the community," he said. "I want to commend you for helping your parents."