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The Power of Democracy
The California Judicial Branch's Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative connects courts with K-12 public schools statewide. The initiative offers two core programs, the Civic Learning Awards, and Judges in the Classroom for any court to adopt locally. Teachers in every county may connect with these programs. Statewide, there are dozens of other programs including Educator Day, Mock Trial/Moot Court, Soapbox Speech or Debates, Career Day, and more.
This initiative and this webspace will grow into a portal for promoting all court outreach opportunities and programs.
Background
Three chief justices—Ronald M. George (Ret.), Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye (Ret.), and Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero have recognized that the judicial branch should take a leadership role in ensuring that every child in California receives a quality civics education.
The Power of Democracy supports judges and courts in their efforts to educate students and teachers about the judiciary and its function in a democratic society.
Why?
Civic learning develops skills youth need for their future lives—critical thinking, problem-solving, civic engagement, communication, and collaboration.
When the educators come together and commit to integrating civics into their school district or campus life:
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students engage in activities relevant to real life;
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appreciate diversity and inclusion resulting in an overall positive and supportive student body. Schools committed to civic learning report greater academic achievement, and student retention. These are the schools honored annually by the Civic Learning Award, co-sponsored by Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond.
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Leadership
Administrative Presiding Justice Judith McConnell (below, left) from the Fourth District Court of Appeal in San Diego has been appointed by Chief Justice Guerrero to serve as the Chair of the Initiative with Santa Clara Superior Court Judge Julia Alloggiamento (below, right) appointed to serve as Vice Chair.
POD offers two statewide programs many school districts engage with. Our goal is to continue expansion to every county, giving every school the opportunity to connect and be recognized for efforts that engage students in civics:
The Power of Democracy Timeline
The experiences of judges dedicated to court outreach together with the challenges of educators trying to integrate civic learning in public schools formed the Power of Democracy. It took a decade of piloting programs and raising awareness to bring the initiative to the judicial branch. Today, POD serves to support and help build the capacity of courts to connect with their communities.
Select "3d" in the lower left for a more interactive experience.