Bob Graham Education Center’s (BGEC) Civic Engagement Academy (CEA) won first place in Miami-Dade County Public School’s “We the People” District Competition on January 11. The team continued to the State’s “We the People” Competition in Orlando on February 2 where they won first place for the fourth consecutive year.
CEA teachers Jackeline Hernandez and John Brady worked relentlessly with their students to learn about the intricacies of the U.S. Constitution. In doing so, they practiced perfecting their arguments and were kept up-to-date on current issues.
“We the People” is an instructional program that enhances students understanding of the institutions of American constitutional democracy. Students discover the contemporary relevance of the Constitution and Bill of Rights. The culminating activity is a simulated congressional hearing in which students “testify” before a panel of judges. They demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of constitutional principles and have opportunities to evaluate, take and defend positions on relevant historical and contemporary issues.
The module promotes civic competence and responsibility among the nation’s upper elementary and secondary students. The program also receives active support from the Center for Civic Education, state bar associations and foundations, and other educational, professional, business and community organizations across the nation.
CEA students and teachers are humbled by the constant outpouring of support from administrators, parents and the Miami Lakes Community. Their achievements are proof that there is no substitute for hard work and dedication. The BGEC family celebrates them for continuing the legacy of Senator Bob Graham and upholding a level of excellence that the Civic Engagement Academy has exemplified since its first graduating class in 2014.