While the nation celebrates Constitution Day on September 17, the California judicial branch spends the entire month of September commemorating our country's founding document.
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Swearing-In Ceremonies: All grades are welcome!
Real-life simulations are a proven effective civic learning exercise. For your new school year, invite a judge to administer the oath of office to your elected student leaders. If you don't have an oath, we'll prepare one for you.
If you have time, your guest judge can talk about their work at the local court, how they became a judge, or why there's nothing better than serving the public. Turn a lesson on the Constitution into a moment that may inspire a few young minds.
Judges in the Classroom Visit:
If you'd like to host a judge this September, even if your classroom has unique learning needs, please submit a request.
Let us know what an ideal visit might look like for your students. Remember, the sooner you submit your request, the better.
First Annual Soapbox Challenge
A soapbox oration competition is a public speaking event where participants, often young people, deliver persuasive speeches about an issue they feel strongly about.
If you're a teacher looking for a short-term project, sign up to do a Soapbox event. There are several models to choose from, from a one-time classroom activity to a campus-wide event.
Receive Your Civic Learning Award
Are you one of the twenty-six schools selected to receive the 2026 Civic Learning Award? In September, Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero and judges throughout the state will visit schools to present the award. Make your request now, and let's start planning your celebration!
New for 2026! For Constitution Month, we've put together some resources for your classroom. Of course, you may find more tools in the Civics for Teachers section.
Use these videos for your own civics skills-building exercise or share with your students for discussion.
If you are hosting a judge for a visit to your classroom, your volunteer may request that you view one or more of these orientation videos with your students before the visit: