Federal judges and volunteer attorneys are engaging with local high school students in courtrooms and classrooms both virtually and in-person to heighten awareness of the importance of civil discourse and the role of the courts in daily life this Constitution Day, Sept. 17, and throughout the year.

“Well-informed students, who naturally have their own perspectives and questions are vital to maintaining a rule of law culture that respects and protects their Constitutional rights in practical, but unnoticed ways every day,” said Magistrate Judge Zia M. Faruqui, of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, who is participating virtually in a national civics education program ahead of Constitution Day.

One example of a civics education program being presented by judges is Civil Discourse and the Constitution: Candid Conversations. During a 50-minute class period, judges create a welcoming environment for a variety of law-related civics questions. An interactive question-and-answer session gives participants the opportunity to practice civil discourse skills when discussing topics of concern to them. Local Federal Bar Association (FBA) chapters and volunteer attorneys are assisting judges in this civics effort nationwide.

“Civil discourse and clear communication are legal skills and life skills that equip young people to navigate difficult situations and make sound decisions,” said U.S District Judge Rodney Smith, of the Southern District of Florida, who will host students from three South Florida high schools in his Fort Lauderdale courtroom. “Judges and attorneys can bring attention to civility and communication skills that are required in courtrooms and have applications in every aspect of life, from classrooms to dining rooms to board rooms, and judges are happy to share these practices.”

For information about scheduling a classroom visit, contact Rebecca Fanning, the national educational outreach manager for the federal courts at the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts, rebecca_fanning@ao.uscourts.gov.