What is “Celebrate the Constitution?”
“Celebrate the Constitution” is a unique program that allows students to gain a greater understanding of the United States and Pennsylvania Constitutions through fun and informative learning activities. The program assists schools by providing lesson plans on the Constitution and classroom ideas for mock Constitution signings and constitutional conventions. It makes civic learning inviting and entertaining for students of all ages.

How does it meet federal funding requirements?
In 2004, Congress passed a measure requiring all educational institutions that receive federal money to offer students an instructional program on the U.S. Constitution each September 17 (Constitution Day). The measure applies to all public and private institutions, including high schools, colleges and universities that receive federal money. The Pennsylvania Bar Association’s (PBA) “Celebrate the Constitution” program satisfies that requirement.

Celebrate the Constitution will kick-off with a formal signing program during the third week of September. But, the opportunity to participate in the program will not conclude then. Schools can hold signing programs and Constitution-related lessons across the state and participate in the school poster and essay contests until Bill of Rights Week in December. This will give everyone an opportunity to have programs throughout the fall.

How can my school participate?
It’s simple. Register your class/school now. Then, in August, you will receive a planning guide that will include K-College lesson plans on the Constitution, classroom program ideas — including the popular mock Constitution signings — and a list of organizations that provide civic learning resources for schools. The PBA will also offer free Constitution-related materials for students, available upon request from teachers on a first-come, first-served basis.

Essay and Poster Contests — Plan now to get your students involved.
This year marks the eighth annual Celebrate the Constitution poster contest. In the past it was open only to elementary school students, but this year it has been expanded to all K-12 students. And, we have added an essay writing opportunity as well. The contests are open to all public and nonpublic schools in Pennsylvania. The essay writing portion will also be open to college and university students. Contest details will be provided this fall, so plan now if you would like to involve your students in the contests and learning activities. A lesson around the theme “By the People, For the People” will be included with the poster and essay contest information. It’s a great way to teach civics to your students and have them express what they’ve learned through art and creative writing! This contest helps schools meet Pennsylvania Academic Standards for Civics and Government 5.1.K across all grade levels as well as Pennsylvania Academic Standards for History 8.2.B across all grade levels and 8.3.3.B. The winning elementary-level poster will be used on the 2009 Law Day Lesson Plan Guide. Winning students receive a prize and are invited to the 2009 Law Day Ceremony in May. Sign up to make sure you receive the official poster and essay contest entry and lesson plan materials this August!

Yes, I’m interested in learning more. How do I register to receive the Planning Guide?
Complete the online registration form.

E-mail:
E-mail your name, school name, complete mailing address and phone number to susan.etter@pabar.org.

Telephone:
Call the toll-free registration line 877-329-7621 and leave your name, school name, complete mailing address and phone number.

Please open and print this flyer then post it in your school or e-mail the flyer to teachers and others who could benefit from these great educational programs and activities. Thank you!