News Archives
AZFLSE
2008
Project Citizen Showcase Winners
On Friday May 2nd, 2008, nearly 200 students presented their solutions to problems they are currently facing in their communities. These issues ranged from Animal Testing to Teen Homelessness.
Community leaders listened to the students’ presentations and helped them better understand the democratic process of change.
The topic of the winning portfolio was "Solar Energy", Heather Matchett's 5th grade class from Lineweaver Elementary School in Tucson. Their portfolio will be judged again later this summer at the National Conference of State Legislators in Boston, Mass.
The topic of the winning oral hearing was "Grafitti in America", Sandra Suarez-Hairgrove's class from Valencia Middle School in Tucson.
Congratulations to all participants! (Learn more about Project Citizen).
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ARIZONA STUDENTS AWARDED SCHOLARSHIPS: Arizona Supreme Court Justices Recognize Essay Winners on Law Day
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Amalia Skilton
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Tempe Preparatory Academy
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Maricopa County
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Britanie Ames
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Benson High School
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Cochise County
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Christian Ortega
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Sunnyside High School
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Pima County
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Cory Stevens
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Cibola High School
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Yuma County
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Danielle Font
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Rio Rico High School
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Santa Cruz County
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Gus Peru
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Sunnyside High School
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Pima County
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Heather Singell
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Benson High School
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Cochise County
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Jessica Edmiston
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Benson High School
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Cochise County
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Kamber Turley
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Winslow High School
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Navajo County
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Pedro Espitia
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Sunnyside High School
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Pima County
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Rebecca Pearce
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Show Low High School
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Navajo County
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Robert Nejbauer
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Dobson High School
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Maricopa County
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Sinead Steverson
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South Mountain High School
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Maricopa County
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Foundation Video Premiere at 2008 State Bar Convention Annual Luncheon
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University High School to Compete at Mock Trial Nationals
On Saturday April 5th, sixteen teams competed in the Annual State Mock Trial Competition. This year's case, about civil rights, involved the Plaintiff seeking injunctive relief for the alleged violation of their right to freedom of religion.
The Foundation congratulates University High School on winning the state tournament this year. These students will represent the state of Arizona in Delaware for the National Mock Trial Tournament in May.
Thank you to all who volunteered their time to make this an amazing event.
(to see the list of schools who participated in the state competition, click here).
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Foundation Gives Out Over $2 Million to Legal Aid Grantees
In 2008, the Foundation awarded over 2 million to legal aid grantees across the state of Arizona. This was an increase of over $750,000 from 2007. Agencies apply in late October and grants are awarded starting in January. Each agency serves those most in need with legal issues including child custody, diability benefits, domestic violence, and immigration. For a list of 2008 grantees or how to apply... Read More
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Now Registering for We The People Summer Institute
A free professional development opportunity is available to all Arizona educators! Anyone working to educate youth on civic education is invited to participate in an interactive program that will guide students to the path of positive citizenship. Registration is due April 14th. For more information CLICK HERE!
Other Upcoming Events
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Law Day Brings Another Essay Contest!
The topic of the Third Annual Law Day Scholarship Essay Contest is "How should the courts uphold the rule of law?". Winners from each county will receive a $250 scholarship, and all schools with at least one entry in the contest will receive a $50 stipend for supplies! Read More!
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Schools to Compete in CSI State Competition
The Foundation is excited to host our 3rd Annual Middle/High School CSI Arizona State Competition on May 16, 2008. Over 30 teams participated in this year's CSI Arizona Qualification Scenario, with the hope of competing in the State Competition. The following schools to advance to the state competition in May are: Barry Goldwater High School, Canyon del Oro High School, North High School, North Canyon High School, Centennial Jr. High School, Crane Middle School, Desert Sands Middle School, and Woodard Jr. High (Click here to learn more about CSI Arizona).
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Printing Request for Proposals (Due 3/6)
The Foundation seeks a printer to produce up to 150,000 copies of our “When You Turn 18” brochure that will be distributed to Arizona High School seniors and the general public in May of 2008. Specifications and a production timeline are included in the full request for proposals. The Foundation is an AA/EOE employer - minority and disadvantaged businesses are encouraged to apply.
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State Legal Gap Study Complete - Clear Need Identified for Increased Resources
The Arizona Foundation for Legal Services & Education retained Fieldwork Quant Group in Chicago, Illinois to conduct the study identifying legal needs gap in services for Arizonans. With a 95% confidence level, the State study reveals that 32% of Arizonans had a civil legal need in the last 12 months and over half of those with household incomes under $47K stated they could not afford the private representation needed. Over 80% of Arizonans didn't know where to find legal aid assistance. The study outlines the legal need issues, the areas of the state with the greatest needs and those sub-populations who are most likely to go without a voice in our justice system.
To obtain a copy of this report, please contact Kay Lapid at Kay.Lapid@azflse.org, or (602) 340-7260.
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Arizona Lawyers Helping Homeowners
The Lawyers Helping Homeowners program calls upon volunteer lawyers to assist homeowners in working with their lenders to find appropriate financial arrangements to avoid foreclosure. Keeping people in their homes helps stabilize the economy and increase family security. This initiative, coordinated by the State Bar of Arizona, the Arizona Foundation for Law Related Education, and the Arizona Supreme Court, will not save all homes from foreclosure, but will offer hope and opportunity to many who might otherwise have none (read more).
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ARIZONA STUDENTS CHOOSE OBAMA, MCCAIN AS TOP PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES
Students from nearly 500 schools casted their votes in the Kids Voting Arizona Presidential Preference Election. With nearly 100 percent of participating schools reporting, Democratic Senator Barack Obama and GOP Senator John McCain are the top choices of Arizona’s Kindergarten through 12th grade students (read more).
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LRE Lending Library
The new LRE Resource Library has recently acquired hundreds of new items for its collection. Many new videos, stories and curricula for use in the classroom are now available in a range of Law Related Education topics. All Arizona educators, including teachers, parents, Juvenile Justice representatives and attorneys are invited to borrow materials online, or visit us at 4201 N. 24th St. #210 in Phoenix.
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We the People State Competition Results
First Place - Dobson High School
Second Place - Hamilton High School
Third Place - Corona del Sol High School
Fourth Place - Mountain Ridge High School
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2007
LRE Lending Library Reopens December 1st
The LRE Resource Library is set to reopen on December 1st, and has recently acquired hundreds of new items for its stacks.Many new videos, stories and curricula for use in the classroom are now available in a range of Law Related Education topics. All Arizona educators, including teachers, parents, Juvenile Justice representatives and attorneys are invited to borrow materials online, or visit us at 4201 N. 24th St. #210 in Phoenix.
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Arizona Hosts National Legal Aid & Defenders Association Conference
The impact of the conference is best expressed by a letter the Foundation received from one of the attendees- "Thank you for the scholarship to the NLADA conference in Tucson. I particularly enjoyed the keynote speaker, Dr. Zah of the Navajo Nation. Have you ever heard him speak? Although the audience was quite large, he was like a storyteller in a small intimate environment. And his story is fascinating and sad as well. As the year comes to an end, I wanted to tell you how much I appreciate the financial assistance for this conference as well as the other opportunities funded by the Foundation. My ability to serve others through my position at Arizona Women's Education and Employment and previously as a law and social studies teacher is greatly enhanced by your support. Have a happy holiday season! " -Margi Breidenbach
See NLADA website for conference summary
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Domestic Violence Shelters, Legal Service Providers Seek to Close Funding Gap
Last year 19 legal lay advocates and 20 attorneys, funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) in 28 cities here in Arizona provided help to nearly 1,600 victims of domestic violence with legal problems. This year those victims may not have those dedicated providers to assist them. Recently, the Foundation, who administers the grant and distributes it to domestic violence shelters and legal aid agencies across the state, was informed that they would not receive the DOJ funding of $391,000.
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Grant Applications Now Available!
The Foundation is now accepting applications for LRE, Legal Services, and Loan Repayment Assistance Program grants. Applications are due November 2nd!
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Foundation President Receives Gavel
The Foundation's President Joe Kreamer became a judge on Friday, September 14th as he was sworn in to the Maricopa County Superior Court. Before his appointment by Governor Janet Napolitano, Judge Kreamer was a trial lawyer specializing in personal injury and commercial litigation cases.
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LRE Academy Now Enrolling!
The first Law Related Education Academy of this academic year will take place Sept. 11th! There are over 29 acadmies offered for officers and teachers, but spots will fill up quickly so register today!
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Dates and Deadlines
- December 12, 2007 - AZ Domestic Violence Legal Assistance Project training
- December 13, 2007 - Foundation Board Meeting
- February 6, 2008 - IOLTA Midyear Meeting-Los Angeles
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Input Needed on Curriculum for Tribal Law
The Arizona Foundation for Legal Services & Education is in great need of your input! Please take a few minutes to complete a very important survey about the development of a tribal law curriculum for Arizona public schools. To take the survey, please click here. The survey will be closed on September 7th!
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Foundation Calendar!
- May 16, 2008 – CSI Arizona State Competition
- June 9-13, 2008 - We the People Summer Institute
- June 18-20, 2008 - Arizona State Bar Convention (Tucson)
- July 12-18, 2008 - Project Citizen Summer Institute
- September 26, 2008 - Foundation's 30th Anniversary!
- September 27, 2008 - National Kids Voting Day
- November 4, 2008 - Kids Voting AZ General Election
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Nominate an Officer Today for the LRE Officer of the Year Award!
This award recognizes the exceptional contributions by police and probation officers in the advancement of law related education at schools around the state. One award is given to an outstanding officer each year. Of special emphasis is the demonstration of leadership that extends beyond the classroom and into the law enforcement community and the community at large
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Nominate a teacher today for the John J. Ross Memorial Award!
This award recognizes the exceptional contributions by Arizona teachers in the advancement of law-related education. Up to four $250 cash awards are given annually to teachers from across the state. Of special emphasis is the demonstration of leadership that extends beyond the classroom and involves the community at large. Nominations are due August 31st.
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Foundation Staff to attend ABA IOLTA Conference
Foundation staff members that administer IOLTA funds will be attending the 2007 ABA Annual Meeting in San Francisco from August 9-12. Executives and staff from bar foundations around the country will attend topical sessions regarding the IOLTA program. IOLTA (Interest on Lawer Trust Accounts) funds are used to support legal aid, legal education for the public, and other activities that improve the quality of justice.
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Foundation and Kids Voting Arizona Offer Grants to Arizona Tribal Communities for Collaboration on Kids Voting Curriculum
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August 15th Deadline for Legal Aid Attorney Loan Repayment Program
ASU and U of A alumni who are currently legal aide attorneys are eligible for this program in honor of Joyce Holsey, who silently dedicated her life to giving thousands of others a voice and equal access to our justice system.
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Over 50 teachers trained at LRE Summer Institutes this summer
Summer may be time off for some teachers but there were more than 50 educators that were back at 'school' and this time as the student. Their committment to their students led them to give up a week of their summer vacation to learn more about two law-related education programs: We The People and Project Citizen.
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RFP for 2007-2008 Academy Trainings
The Arizona Foundation for Legal Services & Education will host approximately 30 trainings (from August 1, 2007 - April 31, 2008) which will introduce Arizona educators to a variety of law-related education curricula aligned to Arizona State Academic Standards. Depending on the subject of each training, they may last 1-3 days. Arizona teachers, administrators, school resource officers, school probation officers and community resource people are eligible to attend each training.
Interested parties may download the Facility Request for Proposal here:
RFP for 2007-2008 Academy Trainings.
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New opening at the Foundation
We are seeking an individual to fill a Website & Database Developer position. If you are a team player who is looking for a career with a company that values the balance between work and life, look no further! To apply, please fax a cover letter and resume to 602-416-7435, or send a message to Lara Slifko.
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Awardees to receive honors at 2007 SBA Convention Luncheon
Join us in congratulating William Haug our 2007 Walter E. Craig Distinguished Services recipient and Cary Inabinet our William E. Morris Pro Bono Service recipient, during the Awards Luncheon at the 2007 SBA Convention. Keith Perkins, the recipient for the Foundation for Justice award, will be honored during the reception.
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The 2007 Western Regional Project Citizen Summer Institute
The 2007 Western Regional Project Citizen Summer Institute will be hosted by the Arizona Foundation for Legal Services & Education July 6-13th, 2007, in Prescott, AZ, at Yavapai Community College. Professor Joe Stewart, from South Carolina, will be the institute scholar. The institute is designed for middle and high school educators and will provide professional development for 31 participants and serve 9 states.
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The Arizona We The People Summer Institute
The Arizona Foundation for Legal Services and Education hosts a We The People Summer Institute each June at Yavapai College in Prescott, Arizona. This week-long training is for We The People teachers in upper elementary through high school grade levels, and of all levels of experience with the program.
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Westwind Academy Wins State Project Citizen Portfolio Showcase
The topic of the winning portfolio was "Tagging and Graffiti" and the teacher was Carrie Algozzini. Their portfolio will be judged again in August at the National Conference of State Legislators in Boston, Mass.
Nearly 200 students presented their solutions to problems ranging from elder abuse to immigration during the State Project Citizen Showcase. Community leaders listened to the students’ presentations and helped them better understand the democratic process of change.
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Congratulations to Dobson High School!
Dobson High School finished fourth in the national finals of We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution after they participated in the competition's final round on Capitol Hill in congressional hearing rooms. More than 1,200 students from all 50 states and the District of Columbia participated in the competition.
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Paid Volunteer Opportunity!!!
The Foundation is seeking people who are passionate about civic and law-related education and would like to share their passion, knowledge and experience with others.
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New Opening at The Foundation
We are seeking an individual to fill the a Instruction Specialist position. To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume to Lara Slifko by mail or to The Foundation prior to 5:00 p.m. on April 18, 2007.
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New Openings at The Foundation
We are seeking an individual to fill the a newly created Program Coordinator position. To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume to Lara Slifko by mail or to The Foundation prior to 5:00 p.m. on March 16, 2007.
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2007 Arizona Forensic Science: Crime Scene Investigation Competition
The Foundation is excited to host our 2nd Annual Middle/High School Forensic Science Competition on May 18, 2007. This competition combines science and law providing students the opportunity to develop skills in both fields through the application of crime scene analysis, evidence gathering, critical thinking, communication and presentation skills, and the practical experience of applying the law and science to a real life scenario. The Scenario to qualify for this State Competition has been released.
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2006
The Arizona Foundation for Legal Services & Education is seeking
to fill the positions of Web Content Developer and Project Coordinator.
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"Recognizing the Stars Among Us" A Call For Nominations – Deadline March 31, 2006
Annually at the State Bar Convention, the Foundation honors individuals who have been recognized by their peers as having extraordinary commitment and service to the people of Arizona. Nominations are now being accepted.
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State Bar of Arizona Executive Director gives opening remarks at Foundation reception for ABA Law Related Education Conference held January 25-28th
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2006 Arizona Forensic Science Competition
The Arizona Foundation for Legal Services & Education is excited to be hosting our First Annual Middle/High School State Forensic Science Competition on April 29, 2006. This signature event will be hosted during April in honor of the state's Access to Justice Month. This competition combines science and law providing students the opportunity to develop skills in both fields through the application of crime scene analysis, evidence gathering, critical thinking, communication and presentation skills, and the practical experience of applying the law and science to a real life scenario.
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When You Turn 18
The laws of our state and nation can sometimes be a confusing maze. The "When You Turn 18" brochure serves as a road map to educate and guide young adults through the many areas of the law they encounter in everyday life. This informational guide is available to families, schools and organizations that deal with young adults at no charge order online!.
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2006 Arizona Law Day Essay Contest
We invite all Arizona students in grades 10-12 to enter the 2006 Arizona Law Day Essay Contest. Three winners will be chosen from each County in Arizona, and the First Place essay winner in each County will receive a $150 gift card and a trip to attend special recognition event in May 2006 at the Arizona Supreme Court. Entries are due by March 15, 2006.
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Legislative Appreciation Luncheon
The Arizona Foundation for Legal Services & Education is hosting a "Legislative Appreciation Luncheon" on Monday, February 13, 2006. This event is an important opportunity to thank the Arizona State Legislature for its continued support of our programs and for the Legislators to have an opportunity to interact with Arizona school children, School Safety Officers, Teachers and Domestic Violence Shelters.
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Law Related Education Grant Deadline Extended to Friday March 24th, 2006
The Foundation will distribute a total of $55,000 to Arizona teachers, schools and organizations to promote access to justice through Law Related Education programming. Grant proposals for all three programs (teachers, schools/districts, organizations) will be reviewed together and awards will be announced in April 2006. Award amounts are anticipated to range from $500 to $10,000 dependent upon the total number of qualifying grant applications received. Deadline for proposals is March 15, 2006.
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CSI Arizona
2008
Schools Participating in 2008 State Competition
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2007
Qualification Scenario Has Been Posted!
The 2008 Qualification Scenario has been posted and distributed to CSI Arizona Members. CLICK HERE to download the Scenario. You must register your team by December 21st to participate, but the Qualification Scenario Reports are due February 2nd, 2008
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Registration is Due December 21st for Qualification Scenario!
Registration is now available online for the CSI Arizona Qualification Scenario. Paper applications and rosters will not be accepted, so keep in mind that your student's certificates will be printed exactly as you type them in.
To register, simply LOGIN and click on the qualification scenario event, and then follow the instructions from there. If you have forgotten your user name and password, contact Amy Koenig and it will be sent to you. If you do not have a user name and password BECOME A MEMBER.
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Mock Trial
2008
Mock Trial State Champions Announced!
Congraulations to all the schools who participated in the State Mock Trial Tournament on Saturday, April 5th.
WINNERS:
1st PLACE - University High School (Tucson)- Team WB - Will represent Arizona at the National Mock Trial Competition in May in Wilmington, DE
2nd PLACE - University High School (Tucson)- Team XG
3rd PLACE - Northland Prep.- (Flagstaff) Team AX
4th PLACE - University High School (Tucson)- Team ZA
Arizona School for the Arts-Team AA
Brophy College Prep.-Team JS
Buena High School-Team GX
Central High School-Team MA
Chaparral High School- Team KA
Desert Mountain High School- Team AM
Greenway High School- Team AM
Lake Havasu High School- Team BZ
Northland Prep.- Team JL
Sandra Day O'Connor High School- Team WW
St. Gregory High School- Team EO
Xavier College Prep. -Team OE
ALL STATE TEAM WINNERS:
Bill Brotherton - Central High
Kevin Keller - University High
Amanda Levendowski - Xavier College Prep.
Emma Wohl - University High
Logan Dwyer - Northland Prep.
Jinni Trusko - Unversity High
Brittany Yarbrough - Arizona School for the Arts
COURT ARTIST CONTEST STATE CHAMPION:
Stephanie White - University High School
COURT ARTIST REGIONAL WINNERS:
Isaac Coen - Mountain Ridge High School
Caitlin Rynn - Northland Prep.
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2007
Mock Trial Rules Have been Revised!
Please make sure that you are aware of all the rule changes, and that you are required to have a timer for each of your teams this year. One will not be provided for you. CLICK HERE to read the new rules for this year!
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Announcing the National Mock Trial Practicum Web Site!
The National High School Mock Trial Championship Board in partnership with Great River Technologies presents the NATIONAL MOCK TRIAL PRACTICUM WEBSITE
This valuable tool enhances the mock trial experience for students, teachers, and coaches.This dynamic website includes interactive exercises that allow students to test their knowledge of the trial process. It demonstrates opening statements, closing arguments, direct examinations, cross examinations, and much more. The site also includes flash cards, video clips, drag and drop exercises, and a discussion forum for students and coaches.
COST: $100 per team (up to 8 students) $10 per each additional team member
For questions concerning the website or for a demo, please contact: Stacy Beyer, Acquisitions Manager
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Project Citizen
2008
Lineweaver Elementary School Won Top Portfolio Prize at Project Citizen State Showcase
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Valencia Middle School Won Top Oral Hearing Prize at Project Citizen State Showcase
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Schools to Participate in Project Citizen 2008 State Showcase
The following schools will be showcasing their skills on Public Policy at the Black Canyon Conference Center on Friday May 2nd, 2008.
Holy Angels School- "Regulating Second-hand Smoke in Motor Vehicles"
Holy Angels School- "No Pain, No Gain!"
Landmark Middle School- "Animal Testing"
Lineweaver Elementary School- "Solar Energy"
Lineweaver Elementary School- "Animal Safety"
Mesa Academy for Advanced Studies- "School Service"
Parkview Middle School- "Speeding"
Rhodes Jr. High School- "The Green Revolution"
Rhodes Jr. High School- "Helping the Homeless"
Valencia Middle School- "Graffiti in America"
Westwind Academy- "Teen Homeless"
Congratulations and best of luck to you all!
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2007
Showcase Dates Have Been Announced!
Project Citizen District showcases will take place on March 6th and 7th at their respective District locations. Check back for locations and dates for your district in October.
Registration will begin January 1st and close February 22nd.
The State Showcase will be held May 2nd, 2008 at the Black Canyon Conference Center.
Contact your District Coordinators for assistance and guidance leading up to the District Competition.
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LRE Grant Available!
You can apply for an LRE grant to assist with expenses relating to your school's Project Citizen Program! The Arizona Foundation for Legal Services & Education promotes access to justice for all Arizonans.The Foundation works to level the playing field, so that all in Arizona have knowledge and access to the justice system. The Granting Program for Law-Related Education supports and enhances educational efforts that prepare youth for the office of citizen.
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The 2007 Western Regional Project Citizen Summer Institute
The 2007 Western Regional Project Citizen Summer Institute will be hosted by the Arizona Foundation for Legal Services & Education July 6-13th, 2007, in Prescott, AZ, at Yavapai Community College. Professor Joe Stewart, from South Carolina, will be the institute scholar. The institute is designed for middle and high school educators and will provide professional development for 31 participants and serve 9 states.
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Mogollon Jr. High School Won Top Oral Hearing Prize at Project Citizen State Showcase
Topic: School Vandalism
Teacher: Jim Maner
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Westwind Academy Will Send Their Winning Portfolio to National Showcase
Topic: Tagging and Graffiti
Teacher: Carrie Algozzini
Their Portfolio will be judged again in August at the National Conference of State Legislators in Boston, Mass.
- Mogollon Jr. High School, Jim Maner: Payson –Heber Overgaard School District Final Exam Policy
- Holy Angels School, Leonard Leverance: Globe- School Walkways
- Westwind Academy, Carrie Algozzini: Phoenix – Teen Suicide
- Landmark Middle School, George Colebrook: Glendale – Teenage Activities
- Shepherd Junior High School, Libby Hammond: Mesa – Hygiene Kits for the Homeless
- Rhodes Junior High School, Jeff Anderson: Mesa- Stopping Illegal Immigration into Arizona
- Rhodes Junior High School, Jeff Anderson: Mesa- Reducing Illegal Drug Use in the East Valley
- Underdown Junior High School, Mark McCall: Cashion-Elder Abuse & Neglect in Nursing Homes
- Underdown Junior High School, Mark McCall: Cashion – Improving Police Department Response Times
The Project Citizen Showcase would not be possible without the help of our volunteers. Many thanks go to the following, who gave their time for these students: Kim James, Cheri Bludau, Colleen McManus, Dulce Encinas, Rebecca Lauchner, Manoj Vyas, Brendan Moroney, Lori Rodriguez, Theresa Ramsey, Johnetta Dorsey, Heather Matchett, John Contreras, Candace Odenwald, Jan Lundgren, Kevin Brungardt, Dewain Fox, Javan Mesnard, Rebecca Truxel, Gary Odenwald, Kathleen Lundgren, Brian Lockery, Danielle Reiger, Jody Arnold, Paul Bergelin
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The 2007 District Project Citizen Showcase Registration is now underway!
Click here to see the date of your district showcase. Registration is due February 21st, 2007
Your students have done the work- now give them the opportunity to shine! This exciting event gives students the benefit of interacting with other classes who have had the same experience in their communities. They will also improve their presentation skills and boost their confidence by presenting their project to interested community members and getting encouraging feedback. Travel assistance and lunch for everyone is provided, and each student will receive a certificate for their accomplishment. Participation is free!
Please follow these easy steps to register your class(es) on-line
Paper registration is no longer available
- If you have never participated in a showcase, first, "Become a member".
- Fill out the electronic form and click submit
- An e-mail with your username and password will be sent to you within a few days. Once you have received your username and password, please proceed with the instructions provided below. Your confirmation will include information on which Congressional District Level Showcase your school will be assigned to.
- For those with a username and password, "login".
- If you don't remember your username, contact Amy Koenig and it will be e-mailed to you
- Make sure that your personal information is correct and click "submit".
- On your member page, click "upcoming events registration", and then click the appropriate event for your congressional district.
- Fill out the information to register your team(s), and send in the school responsibility form
If you have any questions about registration or need technical assistance, please contact Amy.Koenig@azflse.org or 602-340-7357
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2006
Welcome to the Arizona We the People.Project Citizen website. The goal of this web site is to provide teachers and students with information that will help them with the Project Citizen program.
Project Citizen is a portfolio based civic education program for grades 5-9. It helps teachers and students understand public policy and use this information to create change in their community thereby empowering them and their teachers. Click here to read Project Citizen historical information, advisory committee members, supporting organizations and past state champions.
- Is interdisciplinary
- Is based on cooperative learning
- Is an excellent model for performance assessment
- Is an excellent method for implementing project based learning
- Focuses on state and local government
- Applies student learning to real public policy issues that concern them Develops participatory skills
...see sample portfolios and more »»
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Coronado K-8 School (Tucson) honored as overall State Champions & Capps Middle School (Heber) honored as top scoring portfolio. Both to represent Arizona at the National Showcase!
Ten teams participated at the state showcase May 11th, at the Black Canyon Conference Centerin Phoenix. Those teams invited were 2 teams from Rhodes Jr. High(Mesa), 3 teams from Capps Middle School(Heber), 2 teams from Parkview Middle School(Prescott), Palo Verde Middle School(Phoenix),Coronado K-8 (Tucson), and Madison #1 Middle School(Phoenix). Each team presented during 2 rounds to a panel of judges consisting of teachers, lawyers, judges, probation officers, and community members. Coronado K-8 School and Capps Middle School (Dress Code)received Superior awards, Capps(Keep It Clean), Madison #1, and the 2 teams from Rhodes Jr. High received Exceptional awards, and Palo Verde Middle School, Capps (Bullying), and the 2 teams from Parkview Middle School received Outstanding awards. Both Coronado K-8 and Capps Middle School (Dress Code) will have their portfolios sent to Seattle in August to be judged nationally during the National Conference of State Legislatures. Congratulations to all the students....you're all winners to us!
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Legislature Back To School Program!
The Foundation and the Center for Civic Education encourages you to involve your school in the seventh annual America's Legislators Back to School Program . The program will kick off the third week of September and, for the first time, run throughout the school year giving legislators and teachers more flexibility in scheduling classroom visits.
The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) sponsors this program that provides resources such as legislative staff to help coordinate visits of legislators, and lesson plans to help teachers prepare for the legislator's visit. NCSL is the Center's partner in We the People: Project Citizen and the Trust for Representative Democracy.
Here is a link to the Frequently Asked Questions from NCSL's website. For more information go to http://www.ncsl.org/public/backsch.htm.
Teachers who have participated in the past have said it was a good experience for Project Citizen and We the People teachers and students; an excellent opportunity to increase legislator's awareness of the programs.
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For those with a login and password
- Click on "Teacher login" under "Register On Line"
- Click on "Personalized Teacher Page" under "Register On Line"
- Click on "Project Citizen Program" under "Upcoming Events Registration Form"
- Fill out the information to register your team(s)
If you have any questions, please contact Amy Koenig at Amy.Koenig@azflse.org or 602-340-7357
Your confirmation will include information on which Congressional District Level Showcase your school will be assigned to.
We look forward to your participation!
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For new participants
- Click on "Register On-line" on the left hand side of the page
- Click on the link "submit your information" located in the first paragraph
- An e-mail with your login and password will be sent to you. Once you have received your login and password, please proceed with the instructions provided below.
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Mesa's Rhodes Jr. High and Prescott Valley's Park View Middle School Selected as 2006 Arizona Project Citizen Champs
A nation-wide civic education program, We the People: Project Citizen, is conducted locally by the Arizona Foundation for Legal Services & Education. It leads students through the public policy-making process and lets students experience the Office of Citizen first-hand. Project Citizen calls on students to solve a problem in their community, big or small, from bullying to traffic. Project Citizen teaches students to honor civic duty and become active members of our community.
Students in Project Citizen classes begin by identify a problem in their community. Next, they research the problem contacting other communities with similar problems to find out what policies were in place to correct them. They then create a policy they feel will solve the problem. And finally they present their research findings as well as their suggested policy and implementation plan both through a static display portfolio and orally to a panel of community leaders.
Project Citizen Oral Hearing State Showcase Champions
Rhodes Jr. High - Mesa - Extra Curricular Activities
Teacher - Terri Welsh
Project Citizen Portfolio State Showcase Champions
Park View Middle School - Prescott Valley - Hwy 69 "Blood Alley"
Teacher - Becky Fitch
(Their portfolio will be judged again at the 2006 National Conference of State Legislatures in Memphis, TN in August)
Superior
- Holy Angels 6th Grade - Globe - topic: Recycling - Teacher: Len Leverance
- Capps Middle School - Heber - topic: Smoking - Teacher: Stacey Frazier
- Rhodes Jr. High - Mesa - Swimming Safety - Teacher: Terri Welsh
- Rhodes Jr. High - Mesa - Mesa Money Matters - Teacher: Terri Welsh
Exceptional
- Westwind Academy - Phoenix - topic: Declining Health of Students - Teacher: Tim Lewis
- Holy Angels 5th Grade - Globe - topic: Recycling - Teacher: Len Leverance
- Palo Verde Middle School - Phoenix - Prop 200 - Teacher: Rich Curtain
Outstanding
- Palo Verde Middle School - Phoenix - Wire Tapping - Teacher: Rich Curtain
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We the People
2008
Now Registering for We The People Summer Institute
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We the People State Competition Results
First Place - Dobson High School
Second Place - Hamilton High School
Third Place - Corona del Sol High School
Fourth Place - Mountain Ridge High School
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2007
Teams to Compete at State Have Been Announced!
Congratulations to all the schools that participated in the district competition on December 8th, and thanks to all the volunteers who made it possible! The following teams will be moving forward to the state competition on January 11th, 2008:
Prescott High School
Lake Havasu High School
Mountain Ridge High School
Corona del Sol High School
Dobson High School
Hamilton High School
Chandler High School Team B
Maricopa High School
Desert View Team 1
Rio Rico High School
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Competition Dates Have Been Announced!
We the People District Competitions will take place on December 8, 2007 at their respective District locations. Contact your District Coordinators for locations, assistance and guidance leading up to the District Competition.
Registration has already begun and is due November 1st.
The State Competition will be held January 11th, 2008 at Chandler Gilbert Community College.
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We The People Registration Is Now Free!
For the 2007-2008 school year, We The People teams will be able to register for the competitions for free due to the generous support of the Arizona State Supreme Court. School responsibility forms and up-to-date rosters will still be required for registration
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LRE Grant Available!
You can apply for an LRE grant to assist with expenses relating to your school's We The People Program! The Arizona Foundation for Legal Services & Education promotes access to justice for all Arizonans. The Foundation works to level the playing field, so that all in Arizona have knowledge and access to the justice system. The Granting Program for Law-Related Education supports and enhances educational efforts that prepare youth for the office of citizen.
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We The People Summer Institute A Success!
Summer may be time off for some teachers but there were more than 50 educators that were back at 'school' and this time as the student. Their committment to their students led them to give up a week of their summer vacation to learn more about the We The People Program. The We The People Summer Institute in June at Yavapai College in Prescott, offered the teachers an opportunity to hear presentations from national civic education leaders, Arizona Supreme Court Justice Scott Bales, and other local experts. The institutes are made possible through a combination of support from the Foundation, Arizona Supreme Court, and the Center for Civic Education.
Each teacher received a complimentary set of text books and more supplimental text books than they could carry for their classrooms. The weeklong professional development and networking opportunities gave these teachers the gift they value most: increased resources for their students to learn.
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The Arizona We The People Summer Institute
The Arizona Foundation for Legal Services and Education hosts a We The People Summer Institute each June at Yavapai College in Prescott, Arizona. This week-long training is for We The People teachers in upper elementary through high school grade levels, and of all levels of experience with the program.
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Congratulations to Dobson High School!
Dobson High School finished fourth in the national finals of We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution after they participated in the competition's final round on Capitol Hill in congressional hearing rooms. More than 1,200 students from all 50 states and the District of Columbia participated in the competition. Students on the Dobson team are Quinney Fu, Elizabeth Meyers, Henry Jiang, Jennifer Truong, Cady Pisani, Laurel Jones, Amanda Toohey, Cheseree Gaston, Caree Wheeler, John Lorenzen, Lauren Hanson, Arielle King, Sarah Raynes and Blake Blackman. The team's teacher is Shannon Sweat.
2007 Arizona State Competition Results!!!
Winners:
1st - Dobson High School - Mesa - Teacher: Shannon Sweat
2 nd Hamilton High School - Chandler - Teacher: Mike Spears
3 rd Corona del Sol- Tempe - Teacher: Tim Smith
4 th Marcos de Niza - Tempe - Teacher: David Dotts
Unit Award Winners:
Unit I Mountain Ridge High School - Glendale
Unit II Lake Havasu High School
Unit III Rio Rico High School
Unit IV Higley High School
Unit V Prescott High School
Unit VI Maricopa High School
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Dobson High School of Mesa Represents Arizona in Washington D.C.
The first round of the national finals was held at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia, April 29 and 30. The competition involves entire classes making presentations and answering questions on constitutional topics before a panel of judges recruited from across the country. Constitutional scholars, lawyers, and government leaders, acting as congressional committee members, judged the students' performances. Arizona Supreme Court Justice Scott Bales was one of this years National Judges. The combined scores of the classes during the first two days of hearings determine which ten teams will compete in the championship round May 1 in Senate hearing rooms on Capitol Hill. That evening the winning classes receive awards at a special ceremony at the Omni Shoreham, Washington D.C.
The annual three-day final competition is the culminating activity of We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution, the most extensive civic education program of its kind in the country. The Dobson students have been working with their teacher, Shannon Sweat, since last fall studying We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution. The text provides students with a fundamental understanding of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
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We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution State Competition
2007 Arizona State Competition Results!!!
Winners
1st - Dobson High School - Mesa - Teacher: Shannon Sweat
2 nd Hamilton High School - Chandler - Teacher: Mike Spears
3 rd Corona del Sol- Tempe - Teacher: Tim Smith
4 th Marcos de Niza - Tempe - Teacher: David Dotts
Unit Award Winners:
Unit I Mountain Ridge High School - Glendale
Unit II Lake Havasu High School
Unit III Rio Rico High School
Unit IV Higley High School
Unit V Prescott High School
Unit VI Maricopa High School
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Judges Connecting in the Classroom
A GREAT teacher resource available! Arizona teachers from around the state, along with staff and members of the Arizona Supreme Court, have created lesson plans, videos, activities and reading materials for teachers to use when they invite members of the Arizona judiciary into their classroom. The lessons link to all levels of the We The People textbook on the subject of the court system. There is a statewide information sheet included on who to contact to schedule a classroom visit. For further information, contact Jennifer at Jennifer.Nickason@azflse.org
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Legislature Back to School Program
For more information, please click here Legislature Back to School Program
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2006
Raise the Bar Documentary
FREE - Preview copy of "Raise the Bar", the documentary film based on the 2003-04 National High School Mock Trial Championship. E-mail Charleston@mac.com with your request for a copy along with your mailing address.
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State Competition Results
Dobson High School of Mesa Represents Arizona in Washington D.C.
On April 28, students from Mesa's Dobson High School traveled to Washington, D.C., where they represented Arizona in the national finals of We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution, the highly prestigious academic competition on the U.S. Constitution. The Dobson students studied for months to prepare for their role as experts testifying on constitutional issues in a simulated congressional hearing. To represent their state at the national finals, the class won their congressional district and the Arizona state competition earlier this year. Dobson placed in the top 25 in a field of 50 teams.
State Sponsor
Arizona Foundation for Legal Services and Education
4201 N. 24 Street, Suite 210
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Phone: (602) 340-7361
Fax: (602) 271-4930
Susan Nusall, Law-related Education Program Manager
National Sponsor
Center for Civic Education
5145 Douglas Fir Road
Calabasas, CA 91302-1467
1-800-350-4223
Robert Leming, We the People National Director
The Arizona We the People... The Citizen and the Constitution program is funded in part by the Arizona Supreme Court and the Center for Civic Education
We the People...the Citizen and the Constitution is administered by the State Coordinator and Congressional District Coordinators.
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Legislature Back to School Program!
For more information, please click here Legislautre Back to School Program
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We the People Logos
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Dobson High School of Mesa Represents Arizona in Washington D.C.
The first round of the national finals was held at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia, April 29 and 30. The competition involves entire classes making presentations and answering questions on constitutional topics before a panel of judges recruited from across the country. Constitutional scholars, lawyers, and government leaders, acting as congressional committee members, judged the students' performances. Arizona Supreme Court Justice Scott Bales was one of this year's National Judges. The combined scores of the classes during the first two days of hearings determine which ten teams will compete in the championship round May 1 in Senate hearing rooms on Capitol Hill. That evening the winning classes receive awards at a special ceremony at the Omni Shoreham, Washington D.C.
The annual three-day final competition is the culminating activity of We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution, the most extensive civic education program of its kind in the country. The Dobson students have been working with their teacher, Shannon Sweat, since last fall studying We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution. The text provides students with a fundamental understanding of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
A GREAT teacher resource available! Arizona teachers from around the state, along with staff and members of the Arizona Supreme Court, have created lesson plans, videos, activities and reading materials for teachers to use when they invite members of the Arizona judiciary into their classroom. The lessons link to all levels of the We The People textbook on the subject of the court system. There is a statewide information sheet included on who to contact to schedule a classroom visit. For further information, contact Jennifer at Jennifer.Nickason@azflse.org
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FREE Professional Development Opportunity!
You are invited to be one of only 24 teachers to attend the We The People: The Citizen & The Constitution 2006 Arizona Summer Institute
Date: June 7-14th
Cost: FREE!!
Location: Northern Arizona University
Teachers will be provided at no cost:
Room and board
Travel Stipend
Classroom set of We The People textbooks
Set of supplemental resource books
The Arizona Summer Institute is open to 4th-12th grade teachers of government, civics, or history. Teachers will participate in lectures given by Constitutional Scholars from around Arizona, learn about effective methods for using the We The People curriculum, which has been correlated to the Arizona Social Studies Standards, and participate in a simulated congressional hearing. Large group and small group work will provide teachers with an excellent networking opportunity. All of this and a week in the cool pines of Flagstaff at NO COST to teachers!
Click here to download an application:
Word Doc - 2006 WTP Arizona Summer Institute
PDF- 2006 WTP Arizona Summer Institute
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We The People: "The Citizen and The Constitution 2006 Summer Institute"
Vice-Chief Justice Rebecca White Berch assisted with teaching at the “The Citizen and The Constitution 2006 Summer Institute in Flagstaff this June. Fifteen educators from Arizona and surrounding states participated in the rigorous professional development program. The educators became students during the five day program and learned constitutional scholars from a variety of disciplines.
"We can’t express how much we appreciate the Vice-Chief Justice’s time to share her expertise," says Susan Nusall, Program Manager, "she, along with the other scholars are preparing these educators to go back and teach their students. Those students, then, will know our constitution and be better prepared for the Office of Citizenship. It is a tremendous gift to our state and nation."
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Dobson High School of Mesa Represents Arizona in Washington D.C
The first round of the national finals was held at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia, April 29 and 30. The competition involves entire classes making presentations and answering questions on constitutional topics before a panel of judges recruited from across the country. Constitutional scholars, lawyers, and government leaders, acting as congressional committee members, judged the students' performances. Arizona Supreme Court Justice Scott Bales was one of this years National Judges. The combined scores of the classes during the first two days of hearings determine which ten teams will compete in the championship round May 1 in Senate hearing rooms on Capitol Hill. That evening the winning classes receive awards at a special ceremony at the Omni Shoreham, Washington D.C.
The annual three-day final competition is the culminating activity of We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution, the most extensive civic education program of its kind in the country. The Dobson students have been working with their teacher, Shannon Sweat, since last fall studying We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution. The text provides students with a fundamental understanding of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.