Three New Education Links

Other places in the United States are becoming involved in civics education. Here are a couple of sites I’ve discovered, along with the ABA’s URL on the topic of democracy and public education.

www.classroomlaw.org  is from Oregon, and it begins:

Democracy, civics and active participation in the community are not things with which we are born – they must be learned. Which is why Classroom Law Project brings vital and engaging civics and law-related education programs into Oregon schools, teaching students at all grade levels the values and skills essential to being a participating citizen in our democracy. Each year, our innovative, timely, practical and fun programs involve and inspire over 400 teachers and 24,000 students from 250 schools in 75 Oregon communities.

www.civiced.org  from California also has similar goals:
The Center for Civic Education is an independent, nonprofit organization based in California with a network of program coordinators in every state and congressional district in the country and in more than seventy emerging and advanced democracies throughout the world. The mission of the Center is to promote an enlightened and responsible citizenry that is committed to democratic principles and actively engaged in the practice of democracy in the United States and other countries. The Center administers a wide range of critically acclaimed curricular, teacher-training, and community-based programs in conjunction with civic educators and activist around the world.

Finally, here is the American Bar Association’s Public Education Division: www.americanbar.org/groups/public_education.html

A Note to Teachers: Check Out A New Planning Source

Dear teachers, I know you’re busy with the final days of this school year. I remember those wonderful field trips and school picnics that started the all-too-short vacation time. But during the relaxing summer, some of my best lesson plans were created. Good teachers never stop planning, do they? Here’s one idea you might consider as you pack for the beach.

The National Center for State Courts has created Justice Case Files, a series of graphic novels about the workings of the courts and their critical role in a democratic society. These easy-to-read, 20-page booklets bring court cases to life to help students enjoy learning about the justice system.

For example, The Case of Internet Piracy, first in the series, tells the story of two trials. Megan, a college freshman, is prosecuted for illegally downloading music files from the Internet as her grandmother fights to get the fair market value for their home in an unrelated eminent domain proceeding. The novel traces the progress of both Megan’s criminal case and the civil eminent domain dispute in clear language at a pace that naturally invites discussion. A preview is available here.

Each booklet includes a glossary of terms used in the story and some have an annotated courtroom diagram. Lesson plans are also available.

So, when your curriculum planning begins for next year, take a peek at Justice Case Files. Until then, enjoy your summer and take that well-deserved rest. Justice Judy