https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/ en https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/when-you-turn-18-legal-survival-guide When You Turn 18: A Legal Survival Guide Joins Judges in the Classroom Lesson Library Martin.Novitski Fri, 11/07/2025 - 13:54 Feature When You Turn 18: A Legal Survival Guide, produced as a publication of the California Lawyers Foundation, served as the template for a new program for students, thanks to the help of an intern just two-years himself into adulthood. “This project is special not just because of its content, but because it was designed by a student for students,” said Justice Judith McConnell, leader of the Chief Justice’s Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative. “It makes the information in When You Turn 18 even more relevant and relatable.” The Power of Democracy’s Judges in the Classroom program will include a presentation version of the guide as part of its lesson library. Teachers may select the topics they wish to cover, invite a judge to talk to students, and gain for themselves a better understanding of how laws impact their students when they reach the age of majority. “Our When You Turn 18 publication is an excellent guide for teenagers to learn about laws that come into play as they step into adulthood," said California Lawyers Foundation President Jerrilyn T. Malana. "We are delighted the Power of Democracy has embraced our guide and created a new and exciting presentation for use in classrooms. Civic education is one of our key focus areas, and the new program helps to advance this goal.” Keeping Up with the Times Upon reviewing the guide for another project, Judicial Council summer intern Tamir Hutton, a student at UC Santa Barbara, expressed how there was information in the publication he never knew, and wished that he was presented the information before turning 18. “There’s a lot we do as high schoolers, playing around and hanging out with our friends," said Hutton. "I didn’t know, but I do now, there’s a lot that can be carried too far and can be illegal once you’re an adult.” By having a near-peer transform the guide into a classroom-ready format, the project reflects the very spirit of civic engagement: young people helping to empower the next generation. Instead of simply handing out the PDF, this format allows students the chance to ask questions, walk through real-life scenarios, and see how the law applies directly to their own lives as they enter adulthood. The presentation blends visuals, discussion, and practical examples, making complex topics both accessible and memorable. A Program in High Demand Judges in the Classroom continues to grow in popularity, with more than 16,000 students participating statewide last year. Adding the When You Turn 18 presentation expands the library of lessons available to schools and ensures young people leave with a tangible resource they can use in their daily lives. How Teachers Can Request the Presentation Teachers can request the new When You Turn 18 presentation through the Judges in the Classroom program by visiting powerofdemocracy.org. Presentations can be scheduled in person or virtually, and the guide itself is available as a free download from the California Lawyers Foundation at calawyersfoundation.org. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/civic-learning-award-presentations-complete-constitution-month-commemoration Civic Learning Award Presentations Complete Constitution Month CommemorationMartin.Novitski Mon, 10/20/2025 - 11:18 Feature The month of September offered opportunities for California’s public schools to celebrate the U.S. Constitution thanks to Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero’s Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative, and the Civic Learning Award program she co-sponsors with State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. The Civic Learning Award of Excellence is traditionally presented by the Chief Justice at the beginning of the school year. This year, she was able to make all three appearances during Constitution Month where she was joined by justices and judges from local appellate and trial courts. Representatives from the legislative branch were also in attendance at all three celebrations to celebrate school efforts to expand civic learning. Award of Excellence Recipients Host the Chief Justice Norte Vista High School in Riverside County was the first honoree to host the Chief Justice. She was joined by Administrative Presiding Justice Judith McConnell, who leads the Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative. On September 25, the Chief Justice presented the second Award of Excellence to Ida Jew Academy and Valle Vista Elementary School (IJAVVE) in Santa Clara County. She was joined onstage by Santa Clara County Judge Julia Alloggiamento, the vice-lead of the Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative. The award celebration was supported by Justice Cynthia Lie, Judge Sunil Kulkarni and representatives from Senator Cortese's office. “By embracing the principles of civic learning, you’re already playing a vital role in shaping a brighter future for all of us,” Chief Justice Guerrero told students. On September 30, Chief Justice Guerrero closed out Constitution Month with a visit to Sparks Middle School in the Hacienda La Puente Unified School District in Los Angeles County. The school, receiving its inaugural Award of Excellence after previous recognitions at various levels, serves as a model for cultivating young leaders. Guests at the event included Los Angeles County Presiding Judge Sergio C. Tapia II, Assistant Presiding Judge Ricardo Ocampo and court outreach staff. Representatives from the legislative and executive branch also lent their support and joined approximately 75 students from various leadership programs at the school. Sparks Middle School employs a civics program that is largely student-run, with 95% of students engaged in civic activity outside the classroom. As she presented the award to school leadership, Chief Justice Guerrero encouraged students to continue developing the skills needed to be informed participants in their community. Chief Justice Encourages Students Prior to each award presentation, Chief Justice Guerrero spent time with student leaders getting to know more about their aspirations and reflections on their experiences in the past year. Students took turns asking the judicial branch leader about her experiences as a judge and her ascent to the role of Chief Justice. For the last two visits, Chief Justice Guerrero also administered an oath of office that officially inducted elected student leaders. Students pledged to serve as representatives of their respective schools with integrity, fairness, and respect for the community. “I want you to remember, that even at your age, your ideas and your voice matter,” Chief Justice Guerrero said. Throughout the month, appellate justices and trial judges hand-delivered awards to schools selected for 2025 honors. In total, 35 schools were honored. (View list) Award Applications The Civic Learning Award program aims to honor schools actively involving students in civics education. Award applications for 2026 will be posted on February 28, and are due March 31. The honorees will be announced on May 1 to correspond with Law Day. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/chief-justice-honors-riversides-norte-vista-high-school-excellence-civics Chief Justice Honors Riverside’s Norte Vista High School for Excellence in CivicsMartin.Novitski Tue, 09/23/2025 - 16:42 Feature During Constitution Week, Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero visited Norte Vista High School in Riverside County to present the 2025 Civic Learning Award of Excellence. The Civic Learning Award, now in its twelfth year, is co-sponsored by the Chief Justice and the State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond.  Schools awarded at this top level receive their award in person from the Chief Justice. Honorees are invited to a larger awards celebration organized by the California Department of Education at the end of the school year. As one of three visits planned for Constitution Month, Norte Vista offered guests a show-and-tell featuring presentations about student-initiated community service projects created by the students. Students described programs like Bilingual Academic Tutor Support (BATS), which pairs high school students with nearby elementary students struggling to learn English. They showcased their Freezer Meals program, which provides nutritious frozen meals for families in need. The school is also a Riverside County voting site, hosting poll worker training and elections with student staff. In 2024, over 100 students worked the polls, and the school reported its highest voter turnout in eight election cycles. In total, students perform nearly 20,000 service hours each year. “I reviewed Norte Vista’s application and was deeply impressed,” said Chief Justice Guerrero. “But hearing directly from the students about what these opportunities mean to them—that’s what is truly inspiring. It’s why, year after year, we continue to sponsor this awards program. We want to celebrate schools that support their students and help them make a difference in their communities.” Norte Vista High School has received the Civic Learning Award at various levels every year since 2022. Each year, teacher Amanda Bush has submitted details outlining the six proven practices for effective civic learning. This year, evidence that included the measured impact and student leadership brought them the highest honor. Further, each example came back to the support of Principal Jason Marquez. “There’s no one certain student who is asked to serve,” Bush said.  “We’re a community that is not often asked to serve, because we’re a community that needs a lot. But we are also a community that provides a lot.” Dr. Reggie Thompkins, Alvord Unified School District Superintendent lauded their efforts, and the fact that the programs are run by the students themselves. “They stepped up without anyone telling them what to do,” he said. “They stepped up because they want to do something for the betterment of others.” The Chief Justice was accompanied by jurists from the Riverside County Superior Court. Administrative Presiding Justice Judith McConnell was also there to meet and talk with students and present the award. “By being here in person, it helps us think creatively about how to connect the courts as support agents in the community,” said Justice McConnell, who has led of the Chief Justice’s Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative for more than a decade. “And I’m thoroughly impressed with the coordination and support demonstrated today, it is quite remarkable. They truly deserve this top honor.” As Chief Justice Guerrero presented the Civic Learning Award of Excellence, she thanked the students for their leadership. “You’re the heart of these programs,” she said. “It’s your voices and your leadership that keep our democracy strong.” A list of all schools honored since 2013 is available on the Chief Justice's Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative website powerofdemocracy.org. Applications are posted in February and announced on Law Day, May 1. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/california-courts-celebrate-constitution-month-statewide-civic-learning-programs California Courts Celebrate Constitution Month with Statewide Civic Learning ProgramsMartin.Novitski Tue, 09/02/2025 - 16:04 News Release Throughout Constitution Month in September, courts across the state will partner with K-12 schools and community organizations to bring judges into classrooms, host courthouse visits, and provide civic learning resources for educators and students. The initiative underscores the judiciary’s commitment to fostering public understanding of the Constitution and the role of the courts in protecting the rights it guarantees. “I am proud of our state courts partnering with schools to actively engage our youth in civic education, and I fully support those efforts. The growth of the Judges in the Classroom program demonstrates the branch’s commitment to connecting with the community and expanding access to quality civic learning throughout the school year.” - California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero Last year, 102 classrooms in 24 counties hosted judges for local Constitution Month events. Highlights for this year include: Judges in the Classroom: Judges will visit schools statewide to lead interactive lessons on constitutional rights, responsibilities, and the rule of law. Civic Learning Awards: Schools recognized for exemplary civic education will receive their honor in person from a local judicial officer. California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero will present the Award of Excellence, an honor she co-sponsors with the State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. Educational resources: The Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative will provide teachers with lesson plans, activity guides, and videos that bring the Constitution to life for students. First Annual Soapbox Challenge: Inspired by educators and students in the Anaheim Union High School District, the most celebrated district honored with 51 Civic Learning Awards since 2013, this competition is available for all schools and encourages students to deliver persuasive speeches on civics issues they feel strongly about. Constitution Month activities align with the judicial branch’s statewide mission to expand civic learning and strengthen public trust in the courts. Public schools may request to connect with the judicial branch by visiting the Power of Democracy Constitution Month website. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/power-democracy-and-icivics-partner-summer-school-teachers Power of Democracy and iCivics Partner for Summer School for TeachersSoltysik, Penne Thu, 07/24/2025 - 13:35 Feature The San Diego Superior Court and the Fourth District Court of Appeal recently welcomed educators from across the country for the 2025 iCivics Educator Convening—a one-day, in-person professional development event. The convening was co-hosted by Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero’s Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative in support of iCivics. “This marks our second year hosting iCivics, I hope we're able to do this again," said Justice Judith McConnell, Administrative Presiding Justice of the Fourth District Court of Appeal and Lead of the Power of Democracy initiative. “We share the same important goal and that is to empower teachers and to give them the tools to teach civics in a meaningful, lasting way."  Educators from 14 states participated in sessions held throughout the Hall of Justice, including breakout discussions inside the Presiding Courtroom. “Our court hosts a wide variety of programs and events for San Diego-based students and teachers,” said San Diego Superior Court Presiding Judge Maureen Hallahan. “So for us to be able to open our doors for a national convening, to see my courtroom turn into a classroom, that makes me proud. And I can see that our outreach staff is proud of what they were able to accomplish here."  Judge Hallahan and Justice McConnell opened the day by highlighting San Diego’s robust civic outreach efforts, including Justice 101, Judges in the Classroom, and one of the state’s largest high school mock trial competitions. Judge Hallahan encouraged teachers to connect with their local courts and emphasized that judiciary support for civic learning is a nationwide commitment. “As judges, we are deeply committed to helping students understand civics and the justice system,” she said. “Outreach is an essential part of our role.” In the afternoon, teachers reconvened for a spirited general session led by Justice David Rubin of the Fourth District Court of Appeal. Attendees used tablets and smartphones to participate in an interactive civics “pop quiz,” covering legal topics presented by San Diego Superior Court Judges Carolyn Caietti, Ana España, Marissa Bejarano, and Justice José Castillo. “This has been a highlight of my summer,” Justice Rubin shared. “It’s an honor to collaborate with colleagues and connect with such dedicated educators—many of whom gave up part of their summer break to be here.” The day ended on a powerful note with a surprise visit from Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, who once served on both the San Diego Superior Court and the Fourth District Court of Appeal. Reflecting on her upbringing in California’s Imperial Valley more than a hundred miles east from San Diego County, she credited teachers and family for encouraging her journey to the bench. Turning back to the quiz, Chief Justice Guerrero offered the final question: “In one word, when you think about the future for your students, what is it that you wish for them?" As the Chief Justice thanked the hosts and participants, the teacher's responses appeared onscreen with words like informed, empowerment, and engaged. Observing the words onscreen, Natacha Scott said, "Your words reflect the importance of civics as a powerful tool for helping students discover their potential. Today's convening was designed to inspire engagement and this word cloud illustrates the impact of civic learning." Scott is iCivics' Director of Educator Engagement and this was her second time connecting with California courts to help teachers upskill in the delivery of fun, innovative, and impactful civics teaching methods. "We thank our partners here in California, and give a special round of applause to the amazing judges and court staff who took the time to support iCivics. And thank you to all of you, our teachers."  If you are a teacher and would like to be considered for iCivics programs like this in the future, be sure to join the free iCivics network. To be notified when the Civic Learning Award applications are posted in February, sign up for updates from powerofdemocracy.org. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/2025-civic-learning-awards-public-schools-honored-excellence-civic-learning 2025 Civic Learning Awards: Public Schools Honored for Excellence in Civic LearningSoltysik, Penne Thu, 05/01/2025 - 08:57 News Release Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero today announced the recipients of the 2025 Civic Learning Awards, California’s highest recognition for public schools promoting civic education. This year’s honorees span the state and reflect the power of civic learning to inspire student leadership, strengthen communities, and connect classroom knowledge to real-world issues. “The creative ways teachers are engaging students are always impressive," said Chief Justice Guerrero. “But this year, it moved me to see teachers stepping aside and giving space for their students to lead their school and community-based efforts. These schools show us what’s possible when students are empowered to engage in their communities and take on the responsibilities of citizenship.” The Civic Learning Award of Excellence, the top honor, was presented to: Ida Jew Academy and Valle Vista Elementary (San Jose, Santa Clara County) The two-campus school integrates civic engagement across grade levels, from mock elections to community service. Students participate in projects like the Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day and civic art showcases, while partnerships with local judges and civic leaders deepen real-world connections. Sparks Middle School (La Puente, Los Angeles County) With a longstanding tradition of excellence, Sparks uses its Project LEAD program to immerse students in civic life through mock trials, legislative debates, community service, and digital citizenship. The program fosters student voice, leadership, and strong ties with local government and nonprofits. Norte Vista High School (Riverside, Riverside County) Students at Norte Vista lead civic initiatives that address mental health, food insecurity, and voter turnout. Civic learning is embedded across disciplines, and the school boasts nearly 20,000 hours of student-led service annually. Partnerships with local organizations expand opportunities for advocacy and global citizenship. Three schools are recipients of the Awards of Emeritus for continuing their 2024 achievement of excellence, Madera Elementary School in Ventura County, and Natomas Pathways Prep Middle School and High School in Sacramento County. South Junior High School in Orange County earned the Award of Emeritus at the Merit level. "This year, we introduced the Emeritus tier to honor the schools that consistently get top scores," explained Administrative Presiding Justice Judith McConnell, Lead of the Chief Justice's Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative. "This gives room for other schools making an equally honorable impact." Santa Clara County Superior Court Judge Julia Alloggiamento, Vice Lead of the Power of Democracy, announced the honors of Distinction to Anaheim High School in Orange County, August Boeger Middle School in Santa Clara County, and Garfield Elementary in Fresno County, and the Award of Merit awarded to Norwalk High School in Los Angeles County, Antioch Charter Academy II in Contra Costa County, and Emperor Elementary in Los Angeles County. The Civic Learning Award program is co-sponsored by the Chief Justice of California and the State Superintendent of Public Instruction. It promotes the “Six Proven Practices in Civic Learning,” which include instruction in government, service-learning, student voice, and real-world simulations of democratic processes. For a full list of honorees and details about the Civic Learning Award program, visit powerofdemocracy.org. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/2025-civic-learning-award-application-period-now-open 2025 Civic Learning Award Application Period is Now OpenSoltysik, Penne Mon, 03/03/2025 - 13:29 News Release Now in its 13th year, the Civic Learning Award program honors schoolwide achievements in civics. The award has been presented 541 times to K-12 schools in 32 counties. With some adjustments for this application period, the award program hopes to attract schools in every county in the state.   New Application and Expanded Application Period  Applications were posted on Feb. 28, two weeks earlier than in previous years. The deadline is extended to Apr. 18 versus the traditional Mar. 31 due date.  "Over the years, some applicants have shared their feedback with us about the amount of time it took to complete an application, so we added the video application option," said Justice Judith McConnell, lead of the Chief Justice's Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative. "What led to a few changes this year came from what we learned from teachers who didn't apply."  The 2025 program will also highlight the video application option. These and other updates to the application will be reviewed during a technical assistance webinar for applicants on Mar. 11 at 4 p.m.  "We feel that with these few changes we can make the awards more accessible to every K-12 public school in California," added Justice McConnell. Basis for the Award "The six proven practices for effective civic education have been the foundation of these awards since they launched in 2013. This year, we've added more specific prompts by grade to help guide applicants to include the specific information our scoring panel looks for," said Judge Julia Alloggiamento who helps lead the initiative. "That information includes a summary evaluation of the reach and impact of their efforts." "Judge Alloggiamento's input has helped us look at the application experience with a fresh set of eyes. The support she is providing this program and to prospective applicants is appreciated by me and our co-sponsors," said Justice McConnell. The awards program is made possible in partnership with the California Department of Education, with support provided by the California Lawyers Foundation. For details visit www.powerofdemocracy.org    https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/2025-champions-civics Honoring Champions of Civic Learning: David W. Gordon and Dr. Michelle HerczogSoltysik, Penne Thu, 02/27/2025 - 10:36 Feature SACRAMENTO — Two of California’s most recognized civic learning advocates were selected by Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero for the Champion of Civics Award. The state judicial branch leader made the announcement at this year's Civic Learning Summit before an audience of school administrators, students, teachers, and representatives from the California courts.   In presenting the award, the Chief Justice expressed the courts' dependence on an informed public that understands the role of a fair and impartial judiciary. Chief Justice Guerrero presents the Champions of Civics Award to Michelle Herczog and Dave Gordon. "That can't happen without people and organizations like you," said Chief Justice Guerrero. "And I want to emphasize that the courts see and appreciate those of you who've been doing the policy and advocacy work. There are two individuals whose commitment to this work really stands out. I'm honored to ask Dave Gordon and Michelle Herczog to the stage to receive the Champion of Civics Award."     Award Honors Commitment to Civics Education The Champion of Civics award recognizes individuals who demonstrate a long-standing commitment to the advancement of quality civics education in California public schools.  Justice Judith D. McConnell, who leads the Chief Justice’s Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative, spoke to the champions in a congratulatory call shortly after the summit. When asked about the road ahead, Dave Gordon highlighted new legislation (SB 584) recently introduced that would bring more civic learning resources to elementary and middle school classrooms. Michelle Herczog added, "Every day, we read references to the courts--the state courts, the federal courts. I think it is important that our young people understand the important work of the judicial branch and its significant role in our democracy."  View virtual call below: Contributions to the Chief Justice's Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative Following the completion of the work behind the K-12 Task Force on Civic Learning report in 2014, both Gordon and Herczog were appointed by the Chief Justice to serve on the newly-formed Power of Democracy Steering Committee until 2023 when the work of that body concluded. Committee accomplishments included: Establishing Constitution Month Creating and vetting classroom lessons for courts to engage students from kindergarten onward Promoting court outreach opportunities for teachers during remote learning Launching the Civic Learning Award and Judges in the Classroom programs "I attribute much of our current achievement to the service and expertise they lent to the judicial branch over the years," said Chief Justice Guerrero. "I know the road ahead is one we'll continue to navigate together to secure the future of civic participation and leadership in our state."  "Their dedication to this movement is unwavering. They continue to push forward with the same passion and determination that inspired me when we first met," said Justice McConnell. "They are true champions, and I’m thrilled our Chief Justice chose to honor them." The award was first introduced in 2020 and presented in 2021 to three teachers, a community organizer, and an administrator who were celebrated virtually. These 2025 Champion awards are the first to be presented by Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero who took office in early 2023.    Biographies David W. Gordon is the Superintendent of the Sacramento Office of Education. He began his career as an elementary school teacher in the South Bronx, N.Y. From 1995–2004, Gordon served as superintendent of the Elk Grove Unified School District. From 2001 to 2003, he served on the President’s Commission on Excellence in Special Education. From 2003–2011, he was appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Education to the National Assessment Governing Board (NAGB), which oversees the National Assessment of Educational Progress (the “Nation’s Report Card”).  Gordon also served on the Power of Democracy Steering Committee from 2014 to 2023. Michelle Herczog, Ed.D. earned her Doctorate Degree in Education from University of California, Los Angeles. Her career in education started in the classroom as a teacher. She took that experience to the Los Angeles County Office of Education where she authored numerous social studies curriculum materials, reports, and resources, and advocated for effective social studies education at local, state, and national levels. This expertise earned her a seat on the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning. Following the release of the Task Force report in 2014, she was appointed by the Chief Justice to serve on the Power of Democracy Steering Committee until that body sunsetted in 2023. Herczog served on the Power of Democracy Steering Committee from 2014 to 2023.   A Shared Mission Gordon and Herczog co-founded Californians for Civic Learning, a non-profit organization aimed at securing a state agenda that elevates and funds civic learning as a priority in public education.  For more details about the work of both Champions, visit the Power of Democracy Timeline:  //--> //--> //--> //-->   These awards are made possible with support from the California Lawyers Foundation. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/judges-classroom-outreach-program-celebrates-most-demand-school-year-yet Judges in the Classroom Outreach Program Celebrates Most In-Demand School Year YetKaren.Datangel Tue, 01/07/2025 - 15:09 Feature More than 13,000 K-12 students know more about the foundation of their government and the judicial branch, thanks to a civics program from the Chief Justice of California. In the last six months alone, the Judges in the Classroom program received 399 visit requests from schools throughout the state, doubling the number received for the entire 2023-2024 academic school year. “In my annual address to the Legislature in March 2024, I announced the implementation of my Power of Democracy civic learning initiative statewide, and the appointment of two of our state’s most experienced civics advocates to lead the way. Justice Judith McConnell and Judge Julia Alloggiamento are a power duo whose leadership of POD continues to inspire courts to support this important work.” - Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero How the Judges in the Classroom Program Works Judges who visit schools provide lessons on the Constitution, civil rights, branches of government, the rule of law, and more. Judges can also give interactive lessons in the form of a mock trial. Additionally, schools can ask judges to administer the oath of office for student leaders, or speak at assemblies, award presentations, and Career Day talks. “Most courts aren't resourced for judges to take time for these connections, so we're giving them simple tools they can use to go talk to some students for an hour,” said Judge Alloggiamento. "One thing every public school teacher has is a court in their county," said Justice McConnell. "Our charge is to make sure they know this, and to make sure judges have resources they can use to fulfill their duty to educate the public about their role. We've focused on expanding the program in the inland and northern regions of the state with great success." This year, the roster of Judges in the Classroom volunteers has grown to 346, with judges in Glenn, Humboldt, Lake, Shasta, and Santa Cruz counties stepping forward to spend time with students in their communities. How Court-School Civics Outreach Programs StartedJudges in the Classroom was modeled after a similar effort in the state of Washington and piloted by judges in Butte and San Diego counties. The program officially launched just before the pandemic in 2020. Using the same technology being used for some court proceedings, courts connected with approximately 250 classrooms remotely that year. Today, judges give classrooms the choice of a remote or in-person visit. "This is one of the most enjoyable community engagements. The personal appearance is preferred as I bring my robe, gavel, and in the case of the Salem Witch Trials, a pilgrim hat which provides the program with some fun 'authenticity.' The 10-11 year-old age range is very curious and enthusiastic and I appreciate the opportunity to participate." - Judge Tim Nader, Superior Court of San Diego County Even before the launch of Judges in the Classroom, many courts have sustained their own outreach programs, including courthouse visits and mock trials for students, as well as Educator Days that give teachers a primer on how the judicial branch works. For some larger courts, outreach is part of a local operational plan and directed by a Court Outreach Committee that often includes members from local offices of education, lawmakers, and volunteers from the business community. In addition to co-leading the statewide civics effort, Judge Julia Alloggiamento also leads the Santa Clara County Outreach Committee. This year, she received the California Judges Association's Outreach Award, presented only once every three years to recognize exceptional outreach efforts by a judicial officer. But for other courts, particularly smaller courts, engaging with schools can be a challenge. "Our smaller courts don't have as many judges, so they may not have an outreach committee," added Judge Alloggiamento. "Judges in the Classroom may be a court's only outreach program." Chief Justice's Power of Democracy Initiative The Power of Democracy initiative began in 2014 to promote civic learning by connecting the state’s judicial branch with educators and public school administrators. Standard 10.5 of the Standards of Judicial Administration states “Judicial participation in community outreach activities should be considered an official judicial function to promote public understanding of and confidence in the administration of justice.” In addition to Judges in the Classroom, the initiative includes the Civic Learning Awards program, which recognizes school-driven, district-supported civic learning efforts that engage students in civic learning. Recipients are announced on Law Day on May 1. Judges visit schools honored, with the highest honors presented in person by Chief Justice Guerrero. To learn more about Judges in the Classroom and to request a classroom visit, go to www.powerofdemocracy.org/judges-in-the-classroom. Programs are made possible with the support of the California Lawyers Association. View more photos from Fall 2024 Judges in the Classroom visits in our Flickr photostream https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/constitution-month-2024 Constitution Month 2024Karen.Datangel Tue, 10/08/2024 - 14:35 Feature September marked the third consecutive year the Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative (POD) made Constitution Day a month-long celebration in the state of California. Initially launched to keep courts connected remotely with schools during the pandemic, the tradition remains to inspire a range of activities. This September, courts received 367 requests for the school year from K-12 educators in 24 counties. This number far exceeds the number of requests for the 2023-2024 school year. "Chief Justice Guerrero asked the Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative to introduce outreach to courts in smaller counties, or with no prior connection to local schools," commented Associate Justice Judith McConnell who leads the POD initiative. "I'm thrilled to see courts come forward and committing to visits to schools because they recognize how important it is. And the judges and students alike are rewarded." Monterey County had its first-ever Judges in the Classroom visit, joining San Benito, Glenn, Humboldt, and Lake Counties as the newest counties to join the Judges in the Classroom program. This year's Constitution Month celebration also included visits to two 2024 Civic Learning Award recipient schools, with one Award of Excellence school receiving a visit from Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero.  On September 6, Judge Julia Alloggiamento, the Vice Lead of the Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative, was awarded the California Judges' Association Judicial Outreach Award for her dedication to bridging the gap between the judiciary and community. The award is presented to an outstanding judicial officer only every three years. Here is a look at some other outreach engagements that took place throughout the state: Santa Clara County The Santa Clara Superior Court had the highest number of Judges in the Classroom visits during Constitution Month with more than 60 visits to fifth grade classrooms, engaging 3,286 students across the county. September 17 marks Constitution Day, celebrating the signing of the document that forms the foundation of our democracy. This month members of the Court will visit 60 5th-grade classrooms, engaging 3,286 students in interactive lessons on the U.S. Constitution! pic.twitter.com/VpuPTZPKAO — Santa Clara County Superior Court (@SCSCourt) September 17, 2024 On September 24, the court presented the Civic Learning Award of Distinction to Ida Jew Academy and Valle Vista Elementary (IJAVVE). The award ceremony kicked off with Judge Evette Pennypacker delivering a lesson to fifth graders on the Constitution and the government. The lesson was followed by remarks from school principal Dr. Anthony Alvarado on the importance of civic education, remarks by faculty member Ms. Friend on school culture, and remarks by the student body president and vice president. The event also featured a presentation of IJAVVE’s student leadership initiatives, including their Weekly Morning Announcements, Buddy Classes, Lower-Grade Games, and the Ruby Bridges Day event. Orange County Orange County Superior Court Presiding Judge Maria Hernandez accompanied Chief Justice Guerrero and State Superintendent Tony Thurmond to present the  2024 Civic Learning Award of Excellence school visits to John F. Kennedy High School in La Palma. The event highlighted Kennedy High’s efforts to prepare students for active citizenship through voter registration drives, mock trials, soapbox speeches and debates, as well as Anaheim Union school district's role in promoting the State Seal of Civic Engagement. Watch a video from the visit to Kennedy High: Mendocino County After visiting the Mendocino County Courthouse in Ukiah, Chief Justice Guerrero and State Senator Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg) met with 15 fifth grade students in Ukiah schools to talk about the U.S. Constitution and how the three branches of government interact. “Since September is Constitution Month in California, this forum provided a perfect opportunity for the Chief Justice and Senator to answer students’ questions and hear about what they are learning," said Kim Turner, Court Executive Officer for the Mendocino Superior Court, to The Ukiah Daily Journal. El Dorado County The Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District held a special oral argument session at Union Mine High School on September 24. More than 200 students from four high schools in the county attended. Attendees heard two cases and had the opportunity to ask the justices questions at the end of the session. Justices also spoke with students about their career paths. Since 2000, the Third Appellate District has held oral argument sessions in 30 high schools and two law schools in 20 counties of its district. Monterey County From September 16-26, judges, commissioners, and temporary judges from the county visited with fifth grade students in nine local elementary schools. The judicial officers provided constitutional law presentations followed by dialogues to highlight the important rights and obligations of all American citizens. San Benito County San Benito County Presiding Judge Omar Rodriguez delivered lessons in a few local elementary school classrooms. Presiding Judge Rodriguez shared more about his positive experience volunteering with Judges in the Classroom: One parent recently told me that my story of growing up in this small town and becoming a judge here has made her kids look at their community differently and believe that they too can find opportunities here.  Learn more about Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative (POD).