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Award of Excellence 2024
Madera Elementary School, Ventura County
Simi Valley Unified School District
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The Chief Justice of California and State Superintendent of Public Instruction co-sponsor the Civic Learning Awards for California public schools. The award recognizes school-driven, district-supported civic learning efforts that engage students in civic learning. To apply, schools describe how they faced and overcame challenges, and engaged students to identify issues in their community (and think critically about solutions) by using the six research-based proven practices in civic learning, as outlined in the Guardians of Democracy Report.
Emphasis is placed on the depth and breadth of their efforts. Most award-winning schools require their entire student body receive at least one high-quality civic education experience during the school year.
Applications are posted in late February and are due on March 31. Honors are announced on May 1, Law Day. The awards program is made possible with support provided by the California Lawyers Foundation.
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How much does this cost?This program is free for California public schools K-12.
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What about charter schools?Yes, our judges visit charter schools, continuation schools, afterschool programs (on a public school campus), credit recovery schools, and juvenile court schools. However, it is up to each court to determine the types of classrooms they visit, and the number of visits they're able to do each year.
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Are there exceptions?You may contact the court directly for special circumstances or events that are outside a public school. Many courts do accept these requests, depending on their resources.
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I submitted a request, now what?When you submit a request, the court in your county is notified. Court processes for coordinating their outreach efforts vary. Don't hesitate to send us an email at judicialoutreach@jud.ca.gov if your request hasn't been responded to. Once a match is identified, you will get an email or text message (depending on your preference). Please respond at your earliest convenience. It is important you confirm the date and time quickly, otherwise the resource may be assigned to another request. Some courts give one week for teachers to respond before moving on to another match.
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Who do I contact if I have a question or suggestion?Email POD staff at judicialoutreach@jud.ca.gov or call us at 415-865-4546. Thank you!
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I have three classes. Can I request a judge for an assembly?Of course! Our judges support a variety of scenarios, but it depends on the court. Go ahead and submit details in the request form.
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Do you have a list of lessons I can look at and/or use?Lessons are available on the Lessons Library page. You may download and use it for instruction purposes or select one for a Judges in the Classroom visit.