We the People
The Robert H. Jackson Center is the sponsor of the We the People: the Citizen and the Constitution program in the schools of Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties.
Instructional Program
The We the People curriculum provides upper elementary, middle and high school students throughout the nation with an innovative course of instruction in the Constitution and Bill of Rights. We the People was established by act of Congress in 1985 and supported by the US Department of Education, with the enthusiastic backing of Chief Justice Warren Burger. Chief Justice Burger said,
All evidence confirms that this has been one of the most extensive and effective programs for the education of young Americans about our constitutional system of government and the principles and values it represents.
Simulated Congressional Hearings
A distinguishing component of the We the People program is the culminating activity, a simulated congressional hearing in which students “testify” before a panel of judges. Working cooperatively as teams, entire classes prepare and make oral presentations on constitutional topics. Students demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of constitutional principles and have the opportunity to evaluate, take, and defend positions on relevant historical and contemporary issues by responding to questions posed by a panel of judges. All elementary, middle and high school teachers are encouraged to involve their students in the simulated congressional hearing.
Hearing Competitions
At the high school level, teachers have the opportunity to enter their classes in a hearing competition starting at the congressional district level. The winners of district competitions advance to the state competition. Each state sends one class to the national finals in Washington, DC.
Congressional Participation
More than 500 Members of Congress have participated and enhanced student’s learning and their appreciation of the roles and contributions of those in public service. Congressmen Brian Higgins (D-27) and John W. Kuhl (R-29) have been invited to participate by visiting classrooms and discussing constitutional issues with students and by speaking to teachers at in-service training sessions.
District Coordinator
The We the People Coordinator for schools in Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties is John Ames. He can be contacted by mail at 5624 West Lake Road, Fredonia, NY 14063; by phone at (716) 679-7947; or by e-mailing John Ames.