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Celebrate the Constitution in September
Judges in your community would like to help your school engage students in the meaning and provisions of the Constitution throughout the year, but especially on Constitution Day September 17.
Classroom Visits
All public school educators are encouraged to invite a judge to come to their classroom to meet with students. Many of our judges speak a language other than English, are interested in connecting with non-traditional learning settings, and are open to meeting students remotely. Any special need that you have, include it in your request.
Courthouse Visits
Requests for visits to a courthouse are on the rise! As we celebrate the public's interest in the work of the courts, we are faced with limited resources and in some counties, courts aren't equipped to host visitors. Teachers are advised to submit a request, noting their request is for a visit to the court. Use the Connect with a Court
Assembly Program
These events are popular for kicking off the new school year. They are great for bringing together the student body, introducing new teachers and staff, and setting priorities for the year. They're even better when they're programmed to be a pep rally around civics! Invite a judge or a group of judges to come "judge" your Soapbox competition or to swear in your newly elected student leaders. If you're not sure where to start, use this program planning template.
Executed as a classroom activity or one that engages the entire school community, these events don't have to take a lot of work to pull off. The information below will help. Remember, if you plan to hold an event and you'd like judge from the court to attend, submit your request early in the planning process.
Some teachers report being able to execute a Soapbox program in just two weeks. More formal programs give months for students to prepare.
Planning a Soapbox Speech Event
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Students prepare speeches and practice the presentation before the event.
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It is up to the organizers to select the prompts to use (scroll down for suggestions).
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Each speaker gets a turn on the "soapbox" (use a small box or mat, if available).
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As soon as you know the date of your event, invite a judge or group of judges to attend.
Scoring: Use a friendly rubric or vote on categories like:
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Most Passionate
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Most Persuasive
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Most Original
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Best Use of the Constitution
Use certificates rather than competitive grades to encourage all voices.
Materials Needed:
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The Constitution or key excerpts (visit archives.gov, several video resources are posted here)
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A Soapbox sign or stand
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Speech preparation worksheet (PDF) or lined paper
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Timer
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Scoring Rubric if judging is involved Use this scoring rubric from the Mikvah Challenge (there you will find many more resources, especially for advanced classrooms)
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Optional: Certificates or small prizes
Sample Prompts (Pick One or Offer a Choice):
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What is one constitutional right you would stand up for?
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What part of the Constitution inspires you?
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If you could change the Constitution, what would you change and why?
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What does freedom mean to you?
Teacher Tips:
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Model a short soapbox speech first.
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Emphasize listening respectfully to each speaker.
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Options: allow students to memorize, read from an essay, or record their prepared remarks.
Samples:
Anaheim Union High School District has earned several Civic Learning Awards for achievements that include Soapbox events. Their annual competitions should inspire others to bring Soapboxes to their school!
We're doing this!
Let us know if you are planning a competition. We'll supply you with:
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artwork
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templates for certificates
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a platform for hosting finalist videos that will be shared nationwide
Email judicialoutreach@jud.ca.gov
Remember, if you'd like to invite a judge to come view or judge your school efforts, submit your request now.