Civics Education News & Resources

Cumberland School of Law
800 Lakeshore Drive
Birmingham, Alabama 35229
(205) 726-2784

Mission and goals: The Alabama Center for Law & Civic Education (ACLCE) is dedicated to educating young citizens in civic knowledge, skills and responsibilities. ACLCE is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit civic education organization which was established in June of 1990. ACLCE is a nationally recognized resource and training center for teachers, school resource officers and community leaders.

The goal of ACLCE is to prepare youth to become active, engaged and informed participants in a democratic society. They offer innovative programs that are relevant to the diverse needs of Alabama’s students and teachers. Over the past 20 years, they built an energetic and cost-effective non-profit organization that utilizes the power of an experienced staff and a large group of committed volunteers to reach educators, schools and students throughout the state.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

Judicial Outreach Coordinator
907.264.0879

Mission and goals: Each year, the Alaska Court System works with legal organizations and educational groups to foster law-related education in our state. The Alaska Bar Association, the American Bar Association, the Anchorage Bar Association and other groups offer excellent educational programs that help students better understand our legal system and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. Explore their civic engagement and learning opportunities, including iCivics, Supreme Court LIVE, Color of Justice, Law Day and the Alaska High School Mock Trial Championships.

4201 N. 24th Street
Suite 210
Phoenix, Arizona 85016-6288
POC: Alvaro Flores, Chief Information Officer
(602) 340-7358

Mission and goals: The Arizona Foundation for Legal Services & Education's mission is to promote access to justice for all Arizonans. The Foundation strives to fulfill this mission by preparing Arizona youth for civic responsibility and providing access to justice for Arizonans most in need. Through the provision of technical and financial assistance to probation and resource officers, teachers and administrators, private attorneys and judges and legal service attorneys and advocates, the Foundation works to level the playing field, so that all in Arizona have knowledge and access to the justice systems.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

The Arizona Supreme Court and the Arizona Foundation for Legal Services and Education partner to develop and implement civic education programs that empower Arizona individuals, communities and schools. The civic education programs include:

• American Civics Education
• Arizona Teen Court
• Connecting with Classrooms
• Educator training
• iCivics Arizona
• Kids Voting Arizona
• Mock Trial
• Project Citizen
• School Safety Program
• We the People

Civics programs are tailored to:

• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School
• Adults
• Teachers

Justice Building
625 Marshall Street
Little Rock, Arkansas 72201
Public Education Coordinator
(501) 410-1935

Mission and goals: The Judicial Branch Education Division of the Arkansas Administrative Office of the Courts aims to create an informed and engaged citizenry by working to give the public an understanding of how the court system functions and how it relates to the other two branches of government.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

• Appeals on Wheels - A program designed to educate students about how the court system functions
• Observing oral arguments - A guided group tour can be paired with watching oral argument in the courtroom. Seeing court proceedings first-hand can give additional insight into how the justice system works
• Online learning games - Kahoot games on state and federal courts, the Arkansas Supreme Court and the Arkansas court structure
• Podcasts - Courts and Community and Lady Justice: Women of the Court
• Virtual tour - An online tour of the Justice Building in Little Rock
• Visiting the Court - School and community groups tour the Justice Building in Little Rock and speak with a justice or judge

Civics programs are tailored to:

Email

Mission and goals: Motivated to improve civic knowledge and participation in California, Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye along with influential judicial and civic learning leaders and experts, have joined to elevate the status of civic learning and engagement and to revitalize democracy in California with the creation of Power of Democracy.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

• The Need and Urgency
• What Works
• K-12 Civic Learning Taskforce
• Civic Learning Awards
• Civil Learning Partnerships

Civics Programs are Tailored to:

• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School
• Adults
• Teachers

1290 Broadway , Suite 1700
Denver, Colorado 80203
(303) 860-1115 or (800) 332-6736

Mission and goals: The Denver Bar Association was founded in 1891 with the commitment to promote justice, support and assist member attorneys in delivering legal service and uphold the honor and dignity of the bar. The association likewise works to foster respect for the legal profession, encourage ongoing legal education and offers resources for the media and the public on legal issues.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

1290 Broadway , Suite 1700
Denver, Colorado 80203
(303) 860-1115 or (800) 332-6736

The Colorado Bar Association was founded in 1897 and has 17,500 members. Priorities for the CBA include:

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

30 Bank Street
PO Box 350
New Britain, Connecticut 06050-0350
(860) 223-4400

Mission and goals: The Connecticut Bar Association's law-related education (LRE) program helps give students throughout Connecticut a better insight into the United States legal system. Attorneys looking to share their passion for the law can volunteer for the CBA's LRE program, no matter how short or long their time commitment may be.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

• Bill of Rights in Action, in which students gain a more solid understanding of how the U.S. Constitution affects their lives;
• The Connecticut Court Visitation Program, where students witness real-life criminal court proceedings
• LAW Camp exposes high school students to the legal profession and gives them instruction on critical and analytical thinking to help them succeed in their educational and professional careers. The week-long camp includes court visits, panel discussions,  advocacy training and preparing for a mock court case.
• Mock Trial Competitions, co-sponsored by CCLCE, for which volunteers serve as judges and coaches as middle and high school students compete against other Connecticut schools in a battle of courtroom wits, right in the classroom;
• Street Law: A Course in Practical Law helps students develop necessary skills for survival in society.
• Pathways to Legal Careers Pipeline program provides insight about the law and the legal profession to high school students, in hopes of encouraging talented and diverse students to consider a legal career.

Civics programs are tailored to:

DELREC is committed to increasing diversity in the legal community. We seek to empower every K-12 student in Delaware with knowledge of the justice system, with opportunities and pipelines to careers in law, and with 1:1 mentorship along the way. We leverage the power of partnerships with teachers, attorneys, nonprofit organizations, and schools to create access to justice for all

651 E. Jefferson Street
Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2300
(850) 561-5600

Mission and goals: The purpose of the Florida Bar Law Related Education Committee is to promote effective law related education programs in grades K-12 of Florida's schools, with an emphasis on teaching students about the legal system, and for people and their property. The committee seeks to maintain and enhance the cooperative efforts of attorneys, educators, and law enforcement personnel in the field of law related education in Florida.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

500 S. Duval Street
Tallahassee, Florida 32399
POC: Emilie Rietow, Education Coordinator
(850) 921-9446

Mission and goals: The mission of the Florida Supreme Court’s Educational Program is to provide opportunities for students, teachers and the general public to learn about the role of the judiciary and the levels and jurisdictions of Florida’s trial and appellate courts. This is done through a variety of programs that range from historical tours to well-developed educational programs.

Programs generally begin with an overview lesson about the Florida Court System, the Florida Supreme Court and the importance of the judicial branch. Most end with a mock oral argument scenario that requires students to think critically and allows them to experience more deeply the role of the state Supreme Court.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

Two popular programs are the Journey through Justice and the Making My Vote Count programs. Journey through Justice works in cooperation with Teen Court staff from the local trial court. Students participate in both a mock trial and an oral argument to gain a complete understanding of the court system and Florida’s third branch of government.

Making My Vote Count is a joint educational program between the Florida Supreme Court, the Historic Old Capital and the Museum of Florida History. It explores the importance and individual responsibility of voting. Each location provides its unique responsibility from their branch perspective. Students participate in activities at all three locations; exploring the history of elections in Florida and the importance of exercising their voting rights.

Civics Programs are Tailored to:

424 S. Second St.
Springfield, Illinois 62701-1779
(217) 525-1760
(800) 252-8908

Mission and goals: The Illinois State Bar Association is the premier legal association in the state. As a voluntary organization of more than 30,000 members, the Association's primary focus is to assist Illinois lawyers in the practice of law and to promote improvements in the administration of justice. The Association engages in many important activities on behalf of the profession — among them proposing and shaping legislation, educating the public, and supporting the courts and the rule of law.

Part of our mission at the ISBA is to educate the public and students of all ages about the important role of lawyers and judges, the importance of an independent judiciary for the proper administration of justice, and to foster an interest in students to respect our justice system and consider pursuing careers in the law. The Law-Related Education committee of the ISBA is composed of volunteer lawyers and judges and educators, with assistance by ISBA staff.

The Law-Related Education Committee of the ISBA carries out that mission through a number of activities, including the following:

1. Quarterly newsletter about civics and law-related education programs and resources sent free by e-mail to any teacher who requests it.
2. Website containing lesson plans and resources for civics and law-related education available to lawyers and educators.
3. Lawyer in the Classroom program through which lawyers are available to speak in the classroom.
4. Booklets about the law for youth, including Becoming An Adult: Your Legal Rights and Responsibilities at Age 18, a booklet for young adults, and Kids and the Law: An A-To-Z Guide for Parents, a booklet for kids and parents about such legal topics as juvenile’s rights, driver’s regulations, work rules for youth. All are online and free.

Sponsorship of a statewide Mock Trial Competition each spring for high school students.

Civics Programs are Tailored to:

• High school students
• Adults
• Teachers
• Law students
• Lawyers

Office of Judicial Administration
State House, Room 315
200 W. Washington Street
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
(317) 232-2542

Mission and goals: The Indiana Supreme Court’s Office of Communication, Education and Outreach manages media inquiries, public information, and opportunities for educators to engage with the judicial branch.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

The Indiana Supreme Court takes oral arguments on the road twice a year. Area students have the opportunity to witness a Supreme Court oral argument and interact with the Court during Q&A sessions that follow the argument.

OCEO manages National Adoption Day, participates in Statehood Day events and coordinates Constitution Day activities for judges across the state.

The Indiana Supreme Court webcasts all oral arguments live and archive them for later viewing here. An directory of judicial officers willing to speak to K-12 classrooms in their respective counties is also available online through the Judges Speakers Bureau.

601 St. Charles Avenue, 4th Floor
New Orleans, Louisiana 70130
(504) 619-0134
(800) 421-5722

Mission and Goals:The Louisiana Center for Law and Civic Education promotes the practical understanding of, and respect for, the law throughout Louisiana. This is achieved by coordinating, implementing, and developing Law and Civic Education programs, by training others in the delivery of Law and Civic Education and assisting schools and interested community organizations with the delivery of quality Law and Civics Education programs.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

• Middle School
• High School
• College (can be modified)

Moakley U.S. Courthouse One Courthouse Way
Suite 3120
Boston, Massachusetts 02210
POC: Lissy Medvedow, Executive Director
(617) 748-4186

Mission and goals: For over two decades, Discovering Justice has been bringing students and communities together to examine the workings of the justice system, explore the ideals of justice and prepare to engage as active citizens. The organization believes in the power of the next generation to sustain our democracy, and the value the belief that the justice system can and should work for everyone.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

• Children Discovering Justice – a literacy-based civics curriculum in elementary schools, grades 1-5 with Courthouse field trips
• Courthouse tours in Moakley U.S. Courthouse and John Adams Courthouse
• Mock Trial Mini Units are designed to help teachers bring civic knowledge, skills and dispositions to their elementary classrooms through a two-week interactive unit, during which student lawyers work to analyze, build and argue a case.
• Mock Trial Program – a ten-week after school program for middle school students

Civics programs are tailored to:

• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School
• College
• Teachers
• Other - Volunteers (Attorneys, Judges, Professionals)

• Middle School
• High School
• College
• Adults
• Other - Civic Organizations

The Missouri Bar
326 Monroe
P.O. Box 119
Jefferson City, Missouri 65102-0119
(573) 635-4128

Mission and goals: The Missouri Bar provides extensive support for classroom learning about the law, the legal system, and the courts. From lesson plans to teacher workshops, The Missouri Bar is committed to helping teachers throughout Missouri understand and explain the law.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

• We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution
• We the People: Project Citizen
• Representative Democracy
• Annual Law Day for Educators
• Teaching Controversial Issues
• Constitution Day
• Judicial Symposium

P.O. Box 150
Jefferson City, MO 65102
Email
(573) 751-9652

Mission and goals: The Civic Education Committee of the Missouri Supreme Court was commissioned in 2011 to educate the people of Missouri on the role of the judiciary in protecting the rights of all people and the common good. The mission of the committee is to enhance the public’s understanding of Missouri’s court system and its function, thereby enhancing the public’s trust and confidence in the judicial branch of the government. The committee is actively developing initiatives to enhance interaction between the courts and their communities that will educate the public about the practices, procedures, and proper role of our state’s courts in our system of government.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

The committee has chosen to target the fourth graders touring the Missouri Supreme Court for education on the essential role the court plays in our system of government. Another key program is the Appellate Court Road Show, in which appellate court judges hear oral argument in front of an audience composed of high school students, college students, or members of the public. The Missouri Supreme Court Institute brings teachers to the high court for a week of instruction during the summer; lesson plans, materials, and presentations will be provided to teachers on the importance of the courts. The committee is also working to bring Justice Sandra Day O’Connor’s internet-based iCivics program to the attention of teachers. Finally, members of the Civic Education Committee are working with the state’s policymakers to ensure that they fully understand the importance of an independent judiciary.

Civics Programs are Tailored to:

• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School
• College
• Adults
• Teachers
• Other - State Policy Makers

310 S. 4th Street
Las Vegas, Nevada 89519
(702) 388-7527

Mission and goals: The Foundation for Relevant Education About the Law's program, Project REAL, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, was created in 2005 to meet the challenge of teaching K-12th grade Nevada students the importance of the law. The goal is to prepare Nevada’s children to become involved, participating citizens who understand their social responsibilities and rights.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

Project REAL offers a variety of programs that give students of all ages the opportunity to explore our judicial system, examine current controversial issues and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. Project REAL Programs fully comply with state and county educational standards.

• Play by the Rules
• Your Day in Court
• Foundations of Democracy
• REAL Drama

PO Box 2184
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87103-2184
(505) 764-9417

The Center for Civic Values (CCV) was founded originally in 1962 as the New Mexico Bar Foundation and is organized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable and educational corporation. CCV offers an innovative hands-on experience in the law for high school students of all ages and abilities. The program activities have been conducted throughout New Mexico, and educational materials have been used in classrooms and mock trial programs across the country.

Civics programs are tailored to:

65 South Front Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215
POC: Doug Stein, Civic Education & Outreach Manager
(614) 387-9223

Mission and goals: The Supreme Court of Ohio Civic Education Program is dedicated to informing citizens about the judiciary, with the aim of building trust through knowledge and understanding. The initiative employs many and varied approaches: off-site court, a visitor education center, guided tours, classroom lesson plans and a public lecture series.

The program is built on a foundation of innovation and continues to move forward with new initiatives. Students are the primary, but not exclusive audience. The education center and online lesson plans offer dynamic learning opportunities that provide an inside look at Ohio courts. We effectively use case narratives that personalize and define the courts, making sometimes-complex concepts understandable on many levels, crossing age groups and cultures.

• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School
• College
• Adults
• Teachers

Oklahoma Bar Association 
P.O. Box 53036
1901 N. Lincoln Blvd.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73152
(405) 416-7024

Mission and goals: The Law-Related Education (LRE) Department of the Oklahoma Bar Association was established in 1989 to further the OBA's goals of increasing public service and enhancing public understanding of the law and the legal system. To that end, LRE endeavors to educate citizens in a constitutional democracy and to create an active and responsible citizenry.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

LRE conducts programs both independently and in partnership with non-profits, civic organizations, and educational groups. Programs include professional development for teachers and others in the civic community via institutions and training workshops. Classroom materials are created and distributed for programs administered by LRE. To fulfill its mission of educating citizens, LRE develops programs unique to Oklahoma such as INFORM — a methamphetamine awareness seminar program, and Law School for Legislators — a training workshop for new legislators.

Programs include:

Nikki Fisher
State Coordinator, Kid Governor®
Nikki.Fisher@OR.KidGovernor.org
503-302-9618

Oregon’s Kid Governor® (ORKG) is a statewide civics program for 5th graders managed by the Oregon Secretary of State’s Office. It is an affiliate of Kid Governor®, an award-winning civics program created by the Connecticut Democracy Center (CTDC).

Timed to coincide with Election Day in November, ORKG offers each elementary school in Oregon the opportunity to enter one student candidate into a statewide election that other 5th graders vote in. Classes can nominate a classmate to run for office, vote in the election or both. Toolkits of in-class lessons, guide teachers and students through the program.

ORKG candidates work with their classmates to create a campaign video outlining:

• Why they want to be ORKG
• Their leadership qualities and skills
• A community issue that they want to address and why it’s important
• A 3-point plan that will help 5th graders across Oregon make a difference on that issue

From the pool of nominees, a selection committee will choose the final 7 candidates and the Secretary of State’s Office will post the videos online. During Election Week, registered classes watch and analyze the campaign videos and vote for the platform and candidate they want to support. The candidate with the most votes statewide is then named Oregon Kid Governor.

The winning candidate serves a one-year term with all the benefits and responsibilities of being Kid Governor. These duties include: sharing their issue statewide with constituents, writing posts for an official blog, and meeting and speaking with students and adults across the state, and participating in programs and events with the Oregon Secretary of State’s Office.

For more about how your 5th grade class can participate in ORKG, please visit the “How to Participate” page.

100 South Street
PO Box 186
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17108-0186
(800) 932-0311

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

The Pennsylvania Bar Association offers a variety of programs for Educators and Lawyers, including:

• Law Day
• Judges and Lawyers in the Classroom
• Celebrate the Constitution
• Mock Trial
• Operation Safe Surf
• Project PEACE
• Stepping Out
• Law for Kids by Kids

Additionally, the Pennsylvania Bar Association offers a collection of lessons and lesson plans, developed by teachers and lawyers, for K-12 students.

• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School
• Adults
• Teachers

Baylor University
Waco, Texas 76798
Email

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

Fifth- through ninth-graders learn about civics and provide a rich resource for Baylor faculty research during the annual Baylor University iEngage Summer Civics Institute. Having launched in 2013, the one-week summer day camp is hosted by Baylor School of Education through a grant from the Hatton W. Sumners Foundation. iEngage was the recipient of NCSC's 2022 Sandra Day O'Connor Award for the Advancement of Civics Education.

Civics programs are tailored to:

1112 Quince Street, SE
P.O. Box 41170
Olympia, Washington 98504-1170
POC

• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School
• Adults
• Teachers

Post Office Box 44008
Madison, Wisconsin 53744-4008
(608) 848-1950

Mission and goals: The Dane County Bar Association's Law for the Public Committee conveys information about the law to the public; improves the availability and accessibility of legal information and resources; provides and promotes educational opportunities for members of the public interested in the law; and in carrying out these functions, generates goodwill toward the Association and the legal profession.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

• Your Life, Your Rights Program: The Committee partners with local high schools to bring teams of volunteer lawyers and judges into classrooms to help educate high school students about their legal rights and civic responsibilities.

Civics programs are tailored to:

The State Bar of Wisconsin's public education programs promote awareness of the law and shared civic duties through interactive educational experiences.

Help strengthen citizens and the state of Wisconsin through developing understanding, appreciation and interest in the courts and the legal system.

The Bar is dedicated to educating members of the public, helping them understand their rights, and teaching them how to make a difference in their communities. The Public Education Department offers you educational resources you can use, including:

• Fun, interactive and educational law-related and civics programs
• Free educational tools and publications
• Volunteer lawyers, judges, and members of the public who are trained to provide civic education

Please feel free to contact Public Education Coordinator Katie Wilcox with any comments or questions at (800) 444-9404, ext. 6191, or email her at PubEdCoordinator@wisbar.org. Thank you for your interest in civic education!

16 East State Capitol
P.O. Box 1688
Madison, Wisconsin 53701
POC: Tom Sheehan
(608) 261-8297

Mission and Goals:
The Wisconsin Court System has designed public education and outreach programs to promote public understanding of the role of the courts and enhance public confidence in the judicial system. The court system is committed to speaking with the people of the state about the judicial branch and listening to their concerns. The court system designs and provides programs that maintain a strong and vital connection between the courts and the communities we serve. The programs exist to strengthen this partnership, educate the public about the work of the courts, ensure access to justice for all, and provide outreach and educational tools for educators and local courts throughout the state.

• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School
• Adults
• Teachers
• Other - Local courts and bar associations, Legislators and Executive Branch

321 N. Clark Street
Chicago, Illinois 60654
Email
(312) 988-5735

Mission and goals: The six goals that follow constitute the priorities of the American Bar Association Division for Public Education and guide the programs and practices of the division for public education. The Division fulfills its mission to advance public understanding of law and society in three ways:

• To educate the public by connecting the dots between civic responsibilities, the law, the courts and the legal system.
• To empower teachers by providing resources that incorporate law and civics into K-12 curriculum.
• To engage students through thought-provoking resources and learning experiences to broaden understanding of law and government.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

The Division offer law-related resources and programs to educators, students, journalists, legal professionals, opinion leaders and the public to promote understanding of law and its vital role in our society. ABA's Teacher's Portal provides lessons plans, programs, publications and information on professional development.

Other programs include:

• Annual Law Day theme
• Judge John F. Grady's Summer Institute for Teachers
• Preview of Supreme Court cases

2001 Bryan St., Suite 3000
Dallas, Texas 75201
POC: Brian W. Tyson, Executive Director
(214) 871-7523

Mission and goals: The mission of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) is to provide education concerning the history and value of the right to trial by jury.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

The ABOTA Academies consist of the following:

• Civics Renewal Network - A network where teachers can find high-quality, no-cost learning materials.
• James Otis Lecture Series – Lectures held in historic government buildings by a noted historian to honor Otis, who played a crucial role in the Revolution of the Bill of Rights
• Teacher's Law School – A crash course in civics for teachers, led by experienced lawyers, law professors and members of the judiciary

Civics programs are tailored to:

• High school
• Middle school
• Teachers

3100 Weslayan, Suite 375
Houston, Texas 77027
(713) 627-2698

Mission and goals: The American Heritage Education Foundation (AHEF) is a non-profit, non-partisan educational foundation (501.c.3) dedicated to the understanding and teaching of America's factual and philosophical heritage to promote constructive citizenship and Freedom, Unity, Progress and Responsibility among our students and citizens. AHEF accomplishes this patriotic mission by writing, producing and distributing free K-12 lesson plans to teachers, students and families in all 50 states and through additional initiatives, programs and partnerships.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

• The American History & Western Civilization Challenge Bowl™ (AHWCCB) is an academic competition and scholarship for college/university student teams who compete in their knowledge and understanding of Western Civilization and of America’s history, founding philosophy, governance, and civic institutions in order to determine America’s top colleges in educating students on these subjects.
• America’s Heritage: An Adventure in Liberty is a performance-tested teacher lesson plan aimed to strengthen K-12 education in the founding documents, institutions, history and principles of the United States of America.
• America’s Heritage: An Experiment in Self-Government is a complimentary, supplemental teacher unit resource that supports and strengthens 6th-12th grade social studies and civic education on the founding, governing documents and principles of the United States of America.

Civics programs are Tailored to:

• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School
• College students
• Teachers

200 N. Glebe Road, Suite 1050
Arlington, Virginia 22203

Mission and goals: Bill of Rights Institute, established in 1999, focuses on providing educational resources on America’s Founding documents and principles for teachers and students of American History and Civics. The mission of the Bill of Rights Institute is to educate young people about the words and ideas of America’s Founders, the liberties guaranteed in our Founding documents and how our Founding principles continue to affect and shape a free society. The Institute helps the next generation understand the freedom and opportunity the Constitution offers. The vision of the Institute is to create a citizenry that has the knowledge, values, dispositions and skills to exercise the rights and responsibilities needed to maintain a free society. Their Being an American curriculum is a civics resource made for ESL students.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

The Bill of Rights Institute offers programs and events for both educators and students.

• For educators: The Bill of Rights Institute offers a variety of educational programs and instructional materials for educators. These include constitutional seminars around the country, as well as printed and online teachers’ guides for use in history, government, civics and social studies elementary, middle and high school classes.

The Academy is the nation’s premier program for high-school students to study the Constitution, and is designed to encourage enthusiasm for learning, prepare students for the academic challenges of a college education, and provide the intellectual tools to create more effective, engaged citizens.

Civics programs are tailored to:

21600 Oxnard Street, Suite 500
Woodland Hills, California 91367
(818) 591-9321
(800) 350-4223
Email

Mission and goals: The Center for Civic Education is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization based in California.

The Center for Civic Education helps students develop an increased understanding of the institutions of constitutional democracy and the fundamental principles and values upon which they are founded; the skills necessary to participate as competent and responsible citizens; and the willingness to use democratic procedures for making decisions and managing conflict. Ultimately, the Center strives to develop an enlightened citizenry by working to increase understanding of the principles, values, institutions and history of constitutional democracy among teachers, students and the general public.

To fulfill this mission, the Center develops high-quality curricular materials, provides exceptional professional development for teachers and advocates for stronger civic education in the United States and emerging democracies.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

The Center offers the most effective programs in the world in civic education for democracy. The main curricular programs of the Center are the following:

620 SW Main Street, Suite 102
Portland, Oregon 97205
503-224-4424

Mission and goals: Classroom Law Project is a non-profit organization of individuals, educators, lawyers and civic leaders building strong communities by teaching students to become active citizens.

Classroom Law Project began and still operates every day on a single core belief: the way to preserve democracy is to teach democracy. And the best way to teach democracy is to incorporate its many vital lessons and principles into the school curriculum. Students learn through mock trials, simulated hearings, discussing public issues and much more, gaining the knowledge and tools required for active, effective participation as citizens in our contemporary democratic society. Their teachers are supported with professional development and new strategies for increasing student knowledge and engagement.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

Classroom Law Project brings education, legal and business communities together by providing innovative, timely, practical and fun civic education programs for students K-12. Some of the programs include:

• Middle School
• High School
• Teachers

332 South Michigan Avenue
Suite 400
Chicago, Illinois 60604
(312) 863-6340

Mission and goals: Mikva Challenge develops the next generation of civic leaders, activists and policy-makers. This is done by providing young people with opportunities to actively participate in the political process, because it is the belief that the best way to learn leadership and to learn democracy is to experience both.

Mikva Challenge is a nonpartisan 501(c)3 organization that prioritizes the development of civic leadership in underserved Chicago high school youth. Mikva Challenge was founded in 1997 as a tribute to former White House Counsel, Judge and U.S. Congressman Abner Mikva and his wife Zoe, a lifelong education activist. Mikva Challenge helps low-income Chicago youth become meaningful actors in politics and, by doing so, honors the Mikvas’ decades of inspiring young adults to embark on careers in public service and politics.

Mikva Challenge embraces ambitious youth workers and advocates; since 2000, Mikva Challenge has trained over 20,000 young people through elections, activism and policymaking programs. Through the Mikva process, young people connect with peers, adults and political issues, strategize about how to win their issue or campaign and take action to become real political participants. These youth tell that they feel they have a “voice” now and report having a greater desire to vote, campaign, organize, lobby, and even run for office. Perhaps most importantly, these Mikva youth now believe that Chicago is their city and that they have the power, knowledge and skills to make it a more just and equitable place – both now and in the future. Mikva Challenge’s work is focused on helping youth take political action now in order to develop the next generation of civic leaders.

As a result, all programs aim to achieve four core goals:

• Ignite teenagers’ passion for politics;
• Increase youth civic knowledge;
• Develop students’ democratic leadership skills; and
• Help young people become part of the solution to school, neighborhood and city problems.

National Office NAWJ
1001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Ste 1138
Washington, DC 20036
Email
(202)393-0222

Mission and goals: The mission of the National Associations of Woman Judges' Informed Voters Fair Judges Project is to promote public understanding of the judicial branch and the need for fair and impartial courts,. IVP seeks to educate and inform the public about the unique role of the judiciary in our constitutional structure and to raise awareness of current threats to a fair and impartial judiciary today.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

• Presentations addressing the judicial branch and the need for fair and impartial courts
• Presentation materials and handouts for use with adult nonpartisan audiences
• Emmy-award winning video
• Website with educational resources and presentation materials
• Conference presentations
• Education, outreach, and technical assistance

525 Arch Street
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106
(215) 409-6600

Mission and goals: The National Constitution Center in Philadelphia brings together people of all ages and perspectives, across America and around the world, to learn about, debate, and celebrate the greatest vision of human freedom in history, the U.S. Constitution. A private, nonprofit organization, the Center serves as America’s leading platform for constitutional education and debate, fulfilling its congressional charter “to disseminate information about the U.S. Constitution on a nonpartisan basis.”

As the Museum of We the People, the Center brings the Constitution to life for visitors of all ages through interactive programs and exhibits. As America’s Town Hall, the Center brings the leading conservative and liberal thought leaders together to debate the Constitution on all media platforms.

As a Headquarters for Civic Education, the Center delivers the best educational programs and online resources that inspire citizens and engage all Americans in learning about the U.S. Constitution. For more information, call 215-409-6700 or visit their website.

Programs developed/distributed/implemented:

• The Interactive Constitution offering extensive primary and secondary sources and a content rich media library with videos, podcasts, blog posts, and lesson plans.
• America’s Town Hall programs about constitutional issues in the news.
• Weekly We the People podcast featuring the best arguments on all sides of current constitutional questions.
• A Constitutional Exchange program connecting students online to practice civil dialogue skills and learn how the Constitution impacts their lives.
• Professional development opportunities for educators, legal professionals, and law enforcement.

Civics Programs are Tailored to:

• Middle School
• High School
• College
• Adults
• Teachers
• Legal professionals
• Law enforcement
• Others

8555 Sixteenth Street
Suite 500
Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
POC
(800) 296-7840

Mission and goals: Social studies educators teach students the content knowledge, intellectual skills, and civic values necessary for fulfilling the duties of citizenship in a participatory democracy. The mission of National Council for the Social Studies is to provide leadership, service, and support for all social studies educators.

Founded in 1921, National Council for the Social Studies has grown to be the largest association in the country devoted solely to social studies education. NCSS engages and supports educators in strengthening and advocating social studies. With members in all the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and 69 foreign countries, NCSS serves as an umbrella organization for elementary, secondary, and college teachers of history, civics, geography, economics, political science, sociology, psychology, anthropology, and law-related education. Organized into a network of more than 110 affiliated state, local, and regional councils and associated groups, the NCSS membership represents K-12 classroom teachers, college and university faculty members, curriculum designers and specialists, social studies supervisors, and leaders in the various disciplines that constitute the social studies.

Programs: In 2010, NCSS published National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies: A Framework for Teaching, Learning, and Assessment. The revised standards continue to be structured around the ten themes of social studies; however, they offer a sharper focus on Purposes; Questions for Exploration; Knowledge (what learners need to understand); Processes (what learners will be capable of doing); and Products (how learners demonstrate understanding). NCSS standards ensure an integrated social science, behavioral science, and humanities approach for achieving academic and civic competence that can be used by social studies decision makers in K-12 schools.

The NCSS framework consists of ten themes incorporating fields of study that correspond with one or more relevant disciplines. These are:

• Culture
• Time, Continuity, and Change
• People, Places, and Environments
• Individual Development and Identity
• Individuals, Groups, and Institutions
• Power, Authority, and Governance
• Production, Distribution, and Consumption
• Science, Technology, and Society
• Global Connections
• Civic Ideals and Practices

Civics Programs are Tailored to:

• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School
• Teachers

Sandy Wilbur Music has produced three civics/music educational videos designed as teaching tools for teachers of music, history, social studies and civics and helping kids learn about important documents, concepts and values. "We The People " helps kids learn the Preamble to the Constitution and how the three branches of government work. "Four Score and Seven Years Ago " sings part of the Gettysburg Address and touches on the Civil War, Lincoln and equality. "She Still Carries A Torch " is about the Statue of Liberty and what it means to the millions of immigrants who have come to this country in search of freedom.

1010 Wayne Avenue
Suite 870
Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
(301) 589-1130

Street Law, Inc. creates classroom and community programs that teach people about law, democracy, and human rights worldwide. Street Law’s accessible, engaging, and interactive programs empower students and communities to become active, legally-savvy contributors to society.

Founded by a group of visionary Georgetown University law students in 1972, the organization’s work now spans 40 nations and reaches thousands of people every year.  Although some initiatives bring staff directly into classrooms and neighborhoods, most efforts are focused on training individuals and organizations to become effective Street Law educators.

Street Law develops and implement interactive teaching methods that equip teachers, law students and lawyers, and other volunteers to educate students of all ages. They also provide top-flight professional development opportunities for educators and produce balanced, accurate curricular materials for use in classrooms and community settings. The approach is practical, relevant, and experiential, blending legal content with innovative hands-on teaching strategies that actively engage young people in the learning process. As a result, Street Law participants benefit from “real life” lessons and insights, which they can use to effect positive change for the rest of their lives.

Street Law has an extensive resource library with free teaching materials. Along with the Supreme Court Historical Society, Street Law offers professional development to high school social studies teachers about the Supreme Court. This Institute takes place each June. Street Law’s textbook, Street Law: A Course in Practical Law, now in its eighth edition, is used in classrooms across the U.S. Hundreds of lessons on law, democracy, human right, public policy, crime prevention, conflict resolution, and youth advocacy are contained within the book.

Street Law caters to:

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation is working to strengthen America’s long-term competitiveness. They educate the public on the conditions necessary for businesses and communities to thrive, how business positively impacts communities and emerging issues, and creative solutions that will shape the future.

The Civic Trust® was founded to promote a broad range of efforts aimed at improving understanding of and involvement in American civic life. We recognize the importance of democracy to national prosperity and know business has a role to play in strengthening it. With efforts like the National Civics Bee® and other programs, we’re dedicated to advancing and promoting civics knowledge in schools, workplaces, and communities.

The Civic Trust® is energizing and modernizing America’s civic life by changing the conversation and perception of civics in classrooms, board rooms, on social media and through other platforms. We actively support and engage leading national and local stakeholders in areas like civic literacy and civics at work.