BYU-Idaho Radio · Judge Ryan Nelson promotes the Circuit Civics Contest
The Ninth Circuit Civics Contest is in full swing this year.
This is a contest that encourages high school students to dive deep into civics. Judges decided upon a new theme every year. This year’s theme is: “The 28th Amendment to the Constitution: What should our next amendment be?” Students are asked to propose a 28th amendment to the constitution. By doing so, the judges are looking to see if students have an understanding of the constitution.
“It’s important as part of civics for us as citizens to understand, not only how important the constitution is as a document, but the fact that it can be changed, and it has been changed over the years,” federal judge Ryan Nelson from the ninth circuit court of appeals said.
The contest covers nine western states and the Pacific Islands. Students can submit an essay or a video to present their argument.
The judges follow a rubric when judging the submissions. They are looking to see how much research and understanding is shown.
Prizes are awarded to first, second, and third place winners. There are also prizes given out throughout each district. $2,000 is awarded to first place, $1,500 for second place, and $1,000 for third place.
Deadline for entries will be March 13.
For more information on the contest, visit https://www.ca9.uscourts.gov/civicscontest/