Public Notice Detail
Thousands of Students to Learn About Courts from Judges, Attorneys in Statewide Program
Posted: Wednesday, October 9, 2002
The visits, which will feature an educational videotape about the court system, are part of a statewide effort to help middle and high school students understand the Constitution, the Judicial Branch and the importance of citizen participation in government.
Minnesota Supreme Court Chief Justice Kathleen A. Blatz has often said that the judiciary is the “least understood branch of government.” Judges believe this educational effort will be an effective tool to improve understanding.
“We’ve received an excellent response from teachers, who see this ‘back to school’ program as a real hands-on learning opportunity,” said Chief Justice Blatz. “Minnesota’s bench and bar are excited to make a difference in our communities.”
Contact the Minnesota Court Information Office at 651-297-5532 to find out what schools in your coverage area will participate in Constitution Day activities this Friday.
The 20-minute videotape, which was sent to social studies teachers at every middle and high school in the state, was designed to meet state graduation standards criteria so teachers can use it as a classroom teaching tool about government. When judge and attorney volunteers visit classrooms October 11, they will play the videotape, talk about the workings of the court system and answer students’ questions.
Curriculum guides that provide lessons on court cases highlighted in the video and other topics related to Minnesota’s courts are available for teachers to download from the state court web site at www.courts.state.mn.us.
This third annual program commemorates the 145th anniversary of the Minnesota Constitution. On October 13, 1857, Minnesotans ratified the state Constitution, which prescribes the three branches of government and spells out citizens’ rights and liberties.
The program is coordinated by the Minnesota State Judicial Branch.