Oregon High School Students Excel in National Civics Competition, Showcasing Constitutional Knowledge

Students from Lincoln High School and Sprague High School in Oregon claimed top honors in the Center for Civic Education's National Finals of 'We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution' competition, highlighting the depth of constitutional knowledge among young learners.

The annual national competition, held in Washington, D.C., challenges high school students to demonstrate their understanding of constitutional principles through simulated congressional hearings. Participants are divided into six groups corresponding to sections of the competition's textbook, where they present opening statements and respond to intense questioning from a panel of judges.

Seventy-two judges, including attorney Israel Piedra, evaluated the students' performances, assessing their comprehension of constitutional history, precedent, and contemporary constitutional issues. Piedra, who previously competed as a high school student, noted the impressive preparation and insight displayed by the participating teams.

The competition serves as a critical platform for developing civic engagement and constitutional literacy among young Americans. Dr. Donna Phillips, President and CEO of the Center for Civic Education, emphasized the event's significance in cultivating future leaders and preserving the foundational principles of American democracy.

Qualifying for the national competition requires teams to win state-level contests or receive a special 'wild card' selection. One team is also chosen annually as a tribute to former congressman and civil rights activist John Lewis, further underscoring the competition's commitment to civic education and democratic participation.

The Center for Civic Education has expanded its reach significantly over the past six decades, now engaging more than 45 million students and 440,000 educators nationwide. This growth reflects an increasing recognition of the importance of comprehensive civic education in preparing young people to become informed and active citizens.

By providing students with opportunities to deeply explore constitutional principles, the 'We the People' competition demonstrates the potential of experiential learning to inspire civic knowledge and engagement among high school students across the United States.