Constitutional Law

Beginning in 2015, Stanley's Constitutional Law team has participated annually in "We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution," a nationwide program sponsored by the Center for Civic Education. This rigorous program leads middle and high school students to become experts in government, civics and constitutional law.

Our students are assigned to one of six panels that study a specific topic, including the history of the rule of law and the future of the Constitution. After studying and practicing throughout the year, both in and out of classroom time, our students compete in the spring in mock congressional hearings against teams from other schools, applying their knowledge as they deliver an opening statement and answer questions from judges about an assigned topic.

Skills Fostered Through the Constitutional Law Program

Presenting Orally

Thinking Critically

Connecting Past and Present

Engaging in Society

Researching

Managing Time 

Working Independently

Commitment

This student-driven opportunity requires a two-year commitment, and those who join should have a vested interest in learning the required skills and focusing on the subject matter. Our first year Development Team members average about two hours per week outside of school, while our second year Competition Team members dedicate an average of 6 hours a week.

Parent/guardian participation is a highly valued aspect of the program to help our students succeed throughout the two years. Encouraging students to prioritize and schedule meeting and study times, engaging in study sessions, discussing current events, and volunteering to work with small groups of students or edit their writing are all ways to be involved and supportive.