The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit is holding a student essay contest on the "Role of Civics Education in Protecting the Rule of Law."
Over the past few decades, the nation has undergone a significant decline in the provision of civics education, and the effects are troubling. Keeping in mind the state of civics education in the country today: Is the teaching of civics valuable to maintaining American democracy? Why is the rule of law important to American democracy, and what role does the teaching of civics have in protecting the rule of law? How can civics education be improved to better "enlighten our citizenry?
The contest is open to high school students who are juniors and seniors in Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Tennessee, including students in the 11th and 12th grades attending public, private, parochial and charter schools, and home-schooled students of equivalent grade status. Children of federal judges or federal judiciary employees are not eligible.
Cash prizes will be awarded: first place is $2,000; second place $1,500; third place $1,000. The first place winner, along with a parent or guardian, will receive travel and accommodations to attend the 2020 Sixth Circuit Judicial Conference in Cleveland.
The deadline to enter is April 24. Judging will be based on: demonstrating an understanding of the role of the judiciary and why the rule of law is important (40 points); clarity and effectiveness in expressing the theme (30 points); grammar, spelling, and composition (25 points); use of citations and bibliographies (5 points).
For information about essay format and full prompts, visit https://connections.ca6.uscourts.gov/civics-contest. If anyone has further questions, contact the Office of the Circuit Executive at 513-564-7200 or civics_contest@ca6.uscourts.gov.
Published: Wed, Apr 01, 2020
