DC We the People Summer Seminar at Montpelier

Teachers were the students for three days at Montpelier

While DC-area students were enjoying their weeks of freedom over summer break, some of their teachers were learning how to teach civics better. Seventeen teachers from around the District converged on James Madison's Montpelier in Orange, VA for a three-day workshop on using the We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution curriculum.

The teachers enjoyed break-out sessions focusing on Units 3 and 4 from the curriculum, including group work, presentations, and even homework. They discussed the main themes from these units, which are How has the Constitution been changed to further the ideals contained in the Declaration of Independence? and, How have the values and principles embodied in the Constitution shaped American institutions and practices? Additionally, the teachers looked at how the Civil War transformed the American constitutional system through the key provisions of the 13th, 14th and 15th amendments and how the right to vote has been expanded since the adoption of the Constitution. Professor Henry L. Chambers from the University of Richmond School of Law worked extensively with the teachers, alongside experienced We the People mentor teachers.

Teachers "compete" in a mock We the People hearing

The last activity for the teachers was the simulated congressional hearing that is the competitive component of the We the People curriculum. The teachers acted as the students, with mentor teachers and other staff serving as judges.