ReporterSUPREME COURT OF OHIO | THE ATTORNEY GENERAL OF OHIOOHIO STATE BAR ASSOCIATION | ACLU OF OHIO FOUNDATIONSPONSORS

OCLRE is excited and honored to host two influential keynoters at the 2014 Law & Citizenship Conference. Mary Beth Tinker (Tinker v. Des Moines Independent School District) has continued to advocate for students First Amendment rights since she was the Plaintiff in the 1969 landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision that concluded

[I]t can hardly be argued that either students or teachers shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate. Like many educators and champions for civic and law-related education, Ms. Tinker was alarmed by the results of the recent Annenberg Public Policy Center study which indicates, among other startling statistics, that only one-third of Americans can name the three branches of government, and another third cant name any. So, along with attorney-friend Mike Hiestand, Tinker launched the Tinker Tour-a journey across the country to promote youth voices, free speech and a free press.

Ms. Tinker will greet conference participants on Sunday, September 21 and deliver the keynote address on Monday, September 22. She will share stories from the tour and discuss how teachers and other advocates can work together to engage young people in learning and appreciating the rights and responsibilities provided by the Constitution.

Students First Amendment Rights, Ohio Judicial Reform Among Conference HIghlights

Did you know?

Issue 2Fall 2014

What teachers say about the Law & Citizenship Conference:Great ideas. Excellent ways to engage students.Always able to take lessons back and implement in the classroom.I came away with so many resources and new ideas.

Turn to page 5 for conference details.

IN THIS ISSUE

Mock Trial Case Capsule ......... 2 OCLRE Award Winners .......... 4

Conference Highlights .............. 5

InspirED ....................................... 6

[O]n average, one quarter of the people who go to the polls on Election Day do not bother to vote for judges.

With the recognition and understanding that Ohio citizens wish to maintain the right to vote on judges, Supreme Court of Ohio Chief Justice Maureen OConnor led a statewide initiative to review judicial election history,

past reform efforts and propose improvements to elevate judicial elections. Based on the findings, the Chief developed a three-point proposal for Ohio judicial election reform.

Chief Justice OConnor will share the plan with conference attendees on Monday, September 22. Following her presentation, Chief Justice OConnor will engage teachers in a candid conversation about the proposed reform.

Source: http://ohiojudicialreform.org/

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Lest readers think that OCLRE leaves the competition only to students, our staff has been participating in a high-stakes (bragging rights) competition of their own for quite some time. In an effort to inspire creativity, team building and a bit of friendly rivalry Executive Director Lisa Eschleman implemented the OCLRE Quote of the Week.Throughout the year, OCLRE staff members submit well-known quotes focused on democracy, civic education, leadership and related topics. Each week, a new quote is posted and quarterly, after a tally of anonymous votes, the staff member who has submitted the winning quote is recognized. At the end of the year, the OCLRE Board of Trustees selects the Quote of the Year. If you follow OCLRE on social media, you likely have seen many of the submissions, and now some of the recent winning Quotes of the Week are sprinkled throughout this issue of the Reporter.

Have a favorite quote youd like us to highlight on our Facebook page? Send it to kstrickland@oclre.org. To plan your own classroom Quote of the Week, check out the Center on Congress at Indiana Universitys Civic Quotes at http://www.tpscongress.org/civic-quotes, where you will find quotes from U.S. government leaders enhanced with historical primary source images.

2015 Mock Trial Case CapsuleEmerson Jones v. Buckeye Juvenile Correctional Institution, et. al. Emerson Jones was injured while incarcerated at the Buckeye Juvenile Correctional Institution (BJCI) when guards responded to a food fight in the cafeteria. A nurse who examined Emerson at BJCI determined that Emersons wrist was sprained. Because the pain continued, Emerson saw a doctor following release from BJCI and it was determined that the wrist was actually broken. Emerson claims that BJCI violated his Eighth Amendment right against cruel and unusual punishment, arguing that the guard engaged in unnecessary infliction of pain and that staff acted with indifference in misdiagnosing the injury.

OCLRE offers academic programs that provide students opportunities to practice the role of citizen in authentic, meaningful ways. Learn more take part in a professional development session this fall! From We the People and Moot Court, to social justice and public policy oriented programs like Youth for Justice and Project Citizen, there are a variety of ways to engage students in learning about government, our justice system and the importance of being an informed, active citizen. All OCLRE programs are aligned to Ohios learning standards for social studies and English/language arts. Register today and learn more at www.oclre.org.

Quote-worthy

Fall into project-based programs that make it real for students

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to

change the world.

Nelson Mandela

We pay a price when we deprive children of the exposure

to the values, principles, and

education they need to make

them good citizens.

Sandra Day OConnor

Priya Sonty Priya is Program Coordinator for the high school Mock Trial and Moot Court programs. Priya graduated from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law in 2014. She has a Master of Education from Christian Brothers University, with licensure in Secondary Spanish Education. Prior to law school, Priya taught in the Memphis (TN) City Schools. No doubt that Priyas education and

experience will be a great asset to OCLRE and the teachers and students whom we serve.

Ryan Suskey Ryan is Director of Professional Development and Programs. Ryan earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Pittsburgh and his M.A.T. from Johns Hopkins University. He is a 2013 graduate of The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law. Prior to joining the OCLRE staff, Ryan taught at Columbus Collegiate Academy. Ryan also taught at Carver

Vocational Technical High School in Baltimore, MD. Ryan is excited to work with teachers to provide tools and resources you need for success in the classroom.

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Justice Joins OCLRE Board of TrusteesNo, thats not just a play on words The Ohio Center for Law-Related Education is pleased to welcome Scioto County attorney Karyn Justice to its Board of Trustees.

Ms. Justice received her B.A. from Kent State University, summa cum laude, in 1995 and graduated from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law in 2000 as a Public Service Fellow. Following graduation, Ms. Justice moved to Portsmouth, Ohio where she still resides.

Ms. Justice began her legal career representing indigent clients in Scioto, Adams and Lawrence counties at Southeastern Ohio Legal Services. In 2009, Justice was honored with the Ohio State Bar Foundations Community Service Award for Attorneys 40 and Under (District 8). She joined the Foundations Fellows Class in 2010 and its Board of Trustees in 2012. In 2013, Justice was appointed to the Council of Delegates for the Ohio State Bar Association and received a Presidents Volunteer Service Award. In 2014, she joined the Board of Directors of the Boneyfiddle Arts Center, as well as the OCLRE Board of Trustees.

Activities that help people at home and throughout Ohio are a rewarding part of my career. No doubt that Ms. Justice has helped a great number people in her community, among them students. Since 2004, she has advised the Sciotoville Community School (East High School) Mock Trial team. Very recently she received the following note from a former student:

Hey Karyn, a few days ago I was going through old things and I found some of my Mock Trial folders, made me think about how important mock trial really was to me and how much it helped me as a person, I really dont think I would have the amount of confidence and courage that I do now if it hadnt been for Mock Trial. I hope you realize what a massive positive influence that mock trial and you were in my life, I know you dont need anyone to tell you this, but what you do is important, volunteering your time to help and educate high school kids makes a huge impact, and I cant thank you enough.

On behalf of OCLRE, we couldnt agree more. Thank you, and welcome!

Welcome WagonOCLRE is pleased to welcome two new and talented staff members to its team.

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Eiler, Founders Award Recipients Announced

The Teaching ToolboxTeachers, are you looking for interactive games? Videos? Field trip resources? New ideas for teaching the founding documents, or just a fun classroom activity? Now you can make OCLRE your first stop for civics and social studies teaching resources with our new online Teaching Toolbox! Our revamped teacher resources collection offers up-to-date resources organized by topic, plus OCLRE program resources in an easy-to-access format. Highlights include iCivics Games, the Newseums Digital Classroom, and The Library of Con-gress Teaching with Primary Sources Direct. The Toolbox contains resources for teaching Ohio government, history, the state and federal courts systems, mock trial, and much more. Check it out now at OCLRE.org/teaching-toolbox. Explore, have fun, and tell us what you think!

Did we miss something? Tell us about a great resource we should add. Contact Kate Strickland: katestrickland@oclre.org.

Lori U. Eiler Award for Mock Trial Coaching Excellence

Glenna McClain has advised the mock trial team at St. Joseph High School in Ironton, Ohio, for the past 18 years. Though Mc-Clain retired from teaching two years ago, she remains steadfast in her dedication to the students. St. Joseph Mock Trial team member Elijah Lutz nominated McClain on behalf of his teammates.

[Ms. McClain] has taught me so much about the law, courts, public speaking and oration. These lessonsare priceless and have led me to wanting to pursue a career in law. Personally, she cares deeply for her students [and] has looked after us as if we were her own children.

Founders Award

Rick Dove is the recipient of this years Founders Award. Rick served 20 years on the OCLRE Board of Trustees after being appointed in 1994 by Chief Justice Thom-as J. Moyer. Throughout his tenure, Dove served in every officer position and judged many Mock Trial, We the People and other OCLRE competitions. I have loved every minute of my time with OCLRE and now [see] lawyers in practice who were Mock

Trial participants during my early days on the board. OCLRE is grateful to Dove for his service, leadership and support.

The first requisite of a good citizen in this republic of ours is that he be able and willing to pull his own weight.

Theodore Roosevelt

On behalf of the Ohio Center for Law-Related Education and its Board of Trustees, it is a pleasure to announce the 2014 recipients of OCLREs highest honors.

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OCLRE Awards HistoryFounders2002 Benson Wolman, Susan Gellman, Jim Phillips, Anthony Celebrezze, Jr.2003 Patricia Allen Day2004 Alvin Bell2005 Dwight Groce2006 Akron Bar Association, Sherri Bevan Walsh2007 David Naylor2008 Rodney Barnes2009 Thomas Moyer2010 Shirley Seaton2011 Justice Robert and Libby Cupp2012 Ken Donchatz, Deborah DeHaan2013 Bill Weisenberg 2014 Rick Dove

Eiler1998 Lori Eiler Cleveland Shaw High School1999 Dick Smith Marysville High School2000 Cynthia Fazio St. Xavier High School2001 Dale Hutzelman Lakota West High School2002 Russell Curtis Ripley Union Lewis Huntington High School2003 Denny Lyle Sylvania Southview High School2004 John Quinn Mt. Gilead High School2005 Tim Taylor Oak Hills High School2006 Michael Boller Lehman Catholic High School2007 Steve Reger Indian Hill High School2008 Bernie Wong Indian Hill High School2009 Kevin Hillery Archbishop Hoban High School2010 Joy Day Ashland High School2011 Chris Amedeo Jackson High School2012 Paul Nick Thomas Worthington High School2013 Jeff Schobert Archbishop Hoban High School2014 Glenna McClain St. Joseph High School (Ironton)

Founding Documents and Primary SourcesProfessor Andrew Wehrman, Marietta College, will present on the Northwest Ordinance, Northwest Territories, and the founding of Marietta. Bob Priest and Mark Dickman are classroom teachers who will demonstrate effective, engaging authen-tic assessments for teaching founding documents. Ryan Cairney from the Ohio

History Connection will share resources and strategies for teach-ing founding documents. Charlene Volk Center on Congress at Indiana University will use hands-on activities to explore the primary sources at the Library of Congress.

ElectionsPublic opinion polling shapes how politi-cians plan and execute. But how do polls work? How reliable are they? How do they influence people? Dr. John Green, direc-tor of the Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics at the University of Akron will share his expertise to help teachers tackle the 2014 elections in the classroom. Darrel Rowland, Public Affairs Editor, Columbus

Dispatch, will discuss how media shapes elections and the rela-tionship between the media, candidates and election coverage. Supreme Court of Ohio Chief Justice Maureen OConnor has developed a three-point plan to improve judicial elections in Ohio. Join the Chief Justice for a candid discussion about judicial elec-tions and the proposed reform.

Law & Courts Living in a democratic society, its impor-tant to understand how rules and laws are made. Michael ONeill from the Legisla-tive Service Commission will go beyond the Schoolhouse Rock song and explain how a bill really becomes law in Ohio. Adrienne Gavula and Lisa Wurm from the American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio will share new and practical ways to teach public policy.

Mary Beth Tinker will share her experience as the namesake of a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision for students First Amend-ment rights and how she continues to advocate today.

Discounts! Havent attended the conference before? Register as a first-timer and save big. Have you been coming to the conference for years and want a fellow teacher to attend, too? Take advantage of the discounted colleague rate!

Lessons, Resources, Networking, and Graduate Credit Attending the conference is just the beginning. Participants will receive a flash drive of 25+ ready-to-use lessons, websites, and resources that can be used throughout the year. Network with colleagues and share tips and strategies. Need graduate credit? One graduate credit from Ashland University is offered for a fee.

Get all the details and register today at www.oclre.org/programs/LnC.

Prof. Andrew Wehrman

Chief Justice OConnor

Mary Beth Tinker

2014 Law & Citizenship Conference- Learn from those in the know

By Kate Strickland, Deputy Director

Its been a long time since I sat in eighth grade American History class, but there are a few things I still remember quite well. For starters, I had a seat by the door, which allowed me to linger a bit longer in the hallway to chat with friends and still make it to my seat by the time the bell rang. That seat also happened to be right next to my best friend, who may or may not have occasionally interrupted my listening to instruction (and vice versa) with side conversation. But the real reason American History and its lessons are remembered are because of a great teacher: Jared Reitz.

Many OCLRE members and friends know Jared as the organizations recently-retired director of programs. However, prior to working for OCLRE, Jared taught for 30 years in my hometown of Piqua, Ohio. Jareds excitement and passion for his work was hard for even the least-engaged students to ignore. His classroom was a true democracy; every thought

and question had the right to be heard and discussed. He genuinely wanted his students to learn, understand and apply. He understood and believed in the purpose of teaching about our nations history and its founding principles so that we may all one day grow to be better, more informed contributors to society. This understanding and passion no doubt led to Jareds involvement in OCLRE programs, first implementing in his own classroom and ultimately joining the OCLRE staff after his retirement from teaching.

As a young woman fresh out of college and practicing social work, it was Jared who introduced me to OCLREs Youth for Justice program, which I implemented with some of my small groups. For the students with whom I worked, Youth for Justice provided a rare opportunity for empowerment, a chance to have their

voices heard and to offer their ideas for addressing injustices they and their peers experienced. Seeing those students faces light up at the seemingly-simple question, what do you think? was a joy, and truly a teachable moment for many who werent often asked that question at home or at school. As Jared often says, for a teacher, it doesnt get any better than that.

Though I miss working directly with students, I am fortunate to work with teachers and to know the impact OCLRE programs make on students throughout the state. OCLRE is grateful to the hundreds of teachers who, despite all the other must dos, embrace its programs

as a way of bringing citizenship to life for their students.

Thinking back to that eighth grade classroom at Wilder Junior High, I can still conjure a few classmates names and faces. I am no longer in touch with many of them, but I do know that among us there are nurses, accountants, and entrepreneurs. But Im sure there are teachers. In fact, among them is that best friend of mine who, it seems, was indeed listening in class. Thank you, Jared, for inspiring us to be good citizens and life-long learners. And for allowing one of us (me!) to remain a student in Mr. Reitzs class a while longer.

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Jared with Rutherford B. Hayes (not a former student)

Teachers make every other profession possible. Unknown

InspirED: Students stories about educators who inspire

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Mr. Browning (and class) Goes to WashingtonMike Browning, teacher at Gahanna Mid-dle School South, took his eighth grade class to Washington, D.C. to participate in the National We the People Middle School Showcase. Here, Browning recounts the journey, which started in the classroom and was fueled by students preparation and enthusiasm.

Gahanna Middle School South imple-mented the We the People curriculum in its eighth grade accelerated English and American History classes in 2009 and, since the first year, the program has been an incredibly rewarding experience for the students. We the People, created by the Center for Civic Education, teaches Constitutional issues through simulated legislative hearings.

Over the past few years, our students have expressed interest in increasing their commitment to We the People. In August, 2013, I met with the building administra-tors (Ms. Robin Murdock and Mr. Denver Fowler) about the possibility of taking We the People students to the National Showcase at George Mason University, just outside Washington D.C. The main obstacle was the logistics of organizing such a trip. The first step was to contact WorldStrides Travel to learn the dates, costs, and fundraising opportunities. The next step was to see if the students and their parents had a genuine interest in par-ticipating in the national competition. Any questions I initially had about whether this trip would become reality ended when the response from the students and parents was unanimous in favor of competing against the best We the People teams in the United States. The final hurdle was to get approval from the Gahanna Jefferson Board of Education, which was granted in November 2013.

We then had two obstacles to tackle: fun-draising and academic preparation. The estimated cost per student was $1,250. Fundraising efforts were organized to help offset the costs. Students partici-pated in a Yankee Candle sale, worked the concession stand at school basketball games and wrote letters to more than 300 local attorneys and businesses requesting donations. These efforts raised more than $6000. I reached out to former students through social media to seek contribu-tions to help fund the trip. To my surprise, more than $1500 came through the mail,

in some cases from those who had not been Gahanna South students in over two decades. With the success of the fundrais-ing, the cost per student was lowered to approximately $850.

Equally important was preparing stu-dents for the academic challenges that lie ahead. I divided my class into six groups, with each group preparing for one of the six unit presentations. I enlisted the help of six local attorneys, so each group had a legal mentor. The legal mentors pro-vided feedback to the students and also taught them how to do legal research. An English teacher colleague conducted writers workshops, to provide in-struction and feedback for the students written presentations. I helped students to develop public speaking skills and worked with them to prepare for the follow-up question and answer portion of the simu-lated hearings.

Three weeks prior to the national com-petition, a practice round was held at the Gahanna South library. Parents, communi-ty members, teachers and district admin-istrators were invited, and a guest panel of judges was assembled that included a state representative, the executive director of the Ohio Center for Law Related Educa-tion and a local attorney. The practice round was videotaped, which allowed the class to analyze and determine what improvements were needed.

On April 4, 2014, our We the People team set out for the national competition. The students preparation paid off and their dedication never waned. Ultimately, the Gahanna South team finished in fourth

place at the national competition.Besides taking part in the We the People competition, the students had the oppor-tunity to sight-see in our nations capital. Among the highlights, the students were given a special tour of the U.S. Capitol from Gahanna South alumna Cory Fritz, communications director for House Speaker John Boehner. The students were on the floor of the U.S. House of Repre-sentatives and in the office and private balcony of Speaker Boehner, among other areas of the Capitol building. Sara Igdaloff Luck, a Washington D.C. attorney and Gahanna South alumna, spoke to the stu-dents about how she overcomes anxiety when presenting a case. Students also spent time at the Smithsonian Institute, the National Archives, Mount Vernon, Arlington National Cemetery and many of the monuments.

Students had the opportunity to fully explore the nations capital, but many expressed that participating in the We the People showcase was the most memorable experience. The parental support was overwhelming, and the building and dis-trict administration have already pledged their support for Gahanna South to send a team to the 2015 We the People National Middle School Showcase.

Editors Note: On August 8, 2014, Mike Browning was selected as an American Lawyers Alliance National Middle School Law-Related Teacher of the Year. The Na-tional Teacher of the Year Award recogniz-es teachers who have made outstanding contributions to law-related education.

Browning, back right, with his class in Washington, D.C.

Go behind the scenes of Ohios government and meet those in the seats of power in the legislative, executive and judicial branches... Join us January 13-14, 2015!

Place-based learning Teaching to SB 165 Original texts the Ohio Constitution Meet with members of the General Assembly and Justices of

the Supreme Court of Ohio See the Supreme Court in session Participate in tours and simulations Take home ready-to-use lesson plans, activities and resources

What past participants say about OGIA:I networked, learned a great deal, and left with solid material I can use. Quite the trifecta.This conference provided real knowledge concerning the three branches of government.[B]y far the best professional development I have ever attended!

Get the Go-To Resource for Government TeachersGovernment in Action: A Content Manual for Teachers with Classroom Applications has been reprinted by the Ohio Center for Law-Related Education and is for sale. Written by Dr. David Naylor and Dr. Bruce Smith, both from the University of Cincinnati, content includes the nature of government, our federal system, Ohios history and Constitution, the three branches of Ohio government and more. Government in Action has been reviewed by teachers who found it the go to resource for teaching the requirements of Senate Bill 165 which includes U.S. and Ohio founding documents.

Cost: Members $10 Non Members $15

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Helping Students Deliver Top-Notch PresentationsWhether preparing for We the People, Mock Trial, Moot Court, Youth for Justice - or, frankly, any presentation it is not uncommon for students to express reservations about public speaking. Even the most poised and prepared may feel anxious, and anxiety can negatively impact ones presentation.

Ed Krauss, veteran We the People judge and mediator with more than 20 years of experience, has offered his suggestions to help students prepare for the oft-dread-

ed oral presentation. The following was written as a reflection following the 2014 High School We the People State Competition, but Mr. Krausss suggestions are relevant no matter the program or presentation setting.

During the initial responses, students are usually so well prepared that they read - or recite from memory while barely consulting their notes - their pre-sentations. They barely take a breath. They often end with 20 or so seconds left on their time.

In mediation we have a saying: Silence is your friend. People need time to digest information, especially fact and history-loaded sentences. Three seconds is a long time, and twenty seconds would provide six or more two or three-second pauses. Presenters would do well to practice two or three-second pauses (which will seem like a long time to them) after key points or the end of paragraphs. The judges will have a few precious seconds to digest and consider, and the points will have greater impact.

It is common for the teams to be well-prepared, even excellent, in the initial portion. That means two things; that of course teams must be strong in that portion of the competition (because almost every team is strong), and that the difference often occurs in the question and answer, no-notes second portion. Things to avoid in this portion:

Starting sentences with I think. One or two times arent a problem, but try to limit or eliminate the phrase.

Inserting ones religious beliefs, or citing religious teachings as the basis for laws or legislation.

Failing to take a moment to consider the question. There is no penalty for gathering thoughts before responding. (See three-second pause, above.)

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Teachers Take the Action Back to the Classroom: Ohio Government in Action

Let us never forget that government is ourselves and not an alien power over us. The ultimate rulers

of democracy are not a president and senators and

congressmen and government officials, but the voters

of this country. Franklin D. Roosevelt

9OCLRE Members Selected to Attend Supreme Court Summer InstituteBy P.J. Babb, teacher, West Carrollton High School

Two Ohio teachers and OCLRE members were selected to participate in the Street Law Supreme Court Summer Institute for Teachers in Washington, D.C. Amanda Ferrell (formerly with Nordonia High School) and P.J. Babb (West Carrollton High School) spent six days of in-depth study with a select group of teachers from across the nation. Here, Ms. Babb shares her experience and how it will impact her teaching, including preparing her students for the annual OCLRE We the People competition.

I had the privilege of participating in the Supreme Court Summer Institute for Teachers from June 26-July1. I was one of 30 educators chosen nationwide to attend this Institute. We worked in the classroom for 35 hours learning about current cases before the Court, the day-to-day functions of the Court, how cases are selected, the personalities of the current Justices, and left with a wealth of ready-to-use resources for the classroom. Each of our sessions included Dynamic Outside Resource People (DORPs), including attorneys that argued cases before the Court, Appellate Judges, previous Court clerks, media personnel that cover the Court, interest group leaders, and professors.

The highlight of the week, however, was being in the Court on Monday, June 30, the final day of the Courts term, when they announced their decisions in the final cases, including the Hobby Lobby case. To be there for the bench announcements and hear the justices explain their reasoning for the decision was monumental and an experience I will never forget. That evening our group of educators returned to the Supreme Court for a reception where we had the opportunity to meet Justice Samuel Alito, author of the majority opinion of both the decisions announced that morning from the bench.

Additionally, I was able to collaborate with 29 other educators from across the nation. This allowed me to consider ideas for integration of the new resources in the classroom and to discuss education in general with people from various backgrounds and areas of the country. I left Washington, D.C. with a much more comprehensive understanding of the operation of the Court and a variety of resources that I can easily adapt in all my American Government courses. I also participated in a Moot Court that I will definitely be incorporating into my classroom as my students prepare for the annual We the People Competition in January.

The Institute was by far the most educational and worthwhile professional development experience of my 15 year teaching career and I am excited to integrate my new resources and knowledge in my classroom this fall. I feel privileged to have been chosen to participate in this priceless experience and I am thankful to the Supreme Court Historical Society, Street Law and West Carrollton Schools for their support in this endeavor.

Historians & Grammarians: Take Note!An article published recently in The New York Times (July 2, 2014) draws attention to punctuation in the official transcript of the Declaration of Independence which, perhaps, changes its meaning. Read the article here. What do you think? What do your students think? Spark lively classroom discussion and debate, and remind students that, no matter ones perspective or interpretation, punctuation has power.

Babb at the U.S. Supreme Court.

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Sponsor Spotlight: Ohio State Bar Association Resources for Teachers & Students

Whats In It for Me? Constitution Day Sept. 17

Special thanks to Taylor Webb, intern, Ohio State Bar Association

OCLRE is fortunate to be sponsored by four organizations that support its mission, to the benefit of countless teachers and students across the state. The Ohio State Bar Association (OSBA) and its charitable arm, the Ohio State Bar Foundation (OSBF), provide resources that promote understanding of the law and how courts work. Many of these resources are useful for students and teachers and complement OCLREs own programs and resources.

The mission of the OSBF is to promote public understanding of the law and to improve the justice system. Not only does the OSBF help to support OCLREs programs with grant money, but it also provides resources for students and teachers through the projects of its Fellows classes. One resource available through the OSBF website is O.P.E.N. Court, a series of three videos intended to help youth with developmental disabilities prepare for a court appearance. The videos follow Henry through his experience in the juvenile justice system. The videos and accompanying resource guide address the emotional and practical issues that a child with developmental disabilities may face, and provide information about child and caregiver rights. Another OSBF resource for teachers and students is Constitution Classroom, an extensive program providing educators with tools they need to teach the U.S. Constitution.

The OSBA serves the needs of its member lawyers across Ohio. In addition, it provides resources to help improve the publics understanding of the law. The OSBA website offers a host of public information resources, many of which are funded by the OSBF.

Specifically appropriate for older high school students is the OSBA fact sheet, Now Youre 18, which briefly outlines the legal rights and responsibilities that come with entry into adulthood. Another OSBA resource suitable for use in the classroom is LawFacts, a collection of 30 pamphlets that cover topics as diverse as traffic law, jury service, divorce and preparing for a legal career. For a comprehensive overview of Ohio law written in consumer friendly language, The Law & You: A Legal Handbook for Ohio Consumers and Journalists, is available in e-book or PDF form, and hard copies are also available.

Students and teachers may also wish to peruse the large and frequently updated archive of Law You Can Use articles through the OSBA website. A search box allows visitors to search topics of interest from among the 600+ articles in the archive. These articles provide general legal information that includes topics of interest to teachers and students, such as penalties for youths who commit serious crimes; school privacy, violence, suspensions and expulsions; legal rights for students with disabilities; school concerns related to divorce or separation; bullying; and sharing information online.

Another OSBA resource is a YouTube video titled Going to Court. This animated video is a basic introduction to the judicial branch that shows what kinds of cases are handled by various courts on the local, state and federal levels.

The collaborative efforts between OCLRE and its sponsors are intended to benefit Ohios teachers and students. In addition to the OCLRE Teaching Toolbox, we hope youll take a look at the resources our sponsor organizations have provided to help your students better understand and appreciate the law and our judicial system.

Relating to the Constitution can be a daunting task for students. Before they invest time and energy to learn something, they ask Whats in it for me? As a teacher, you also want to know Whats in it for me?when presented with teaching resources about free speech or due process. These valid questions are at the heart of the Ohio State Bar Foundations Constitution Classroom. If you want to make Constitution Day-September 17th-or any other day of the year with your students creative and productive, visit OSBF Con-stitution Classroom and seize these free, downloadable materials. No warrant necessary.

You will find

Materials researched by lawyers but written for teachers and students. No need to do any last minute research

More than 150 pages of content, lesson plans, activities and interactive PowerPoints to use in your classroom

Updated Supreme Court cases that deal with actual students and issues they face today

Lessons charted for easy reference to Ohio Benchmark Standards

And Committed lawyers who will teach these lessons with you any day of the year, including September 17th

For more information, contact Beth Gillespie at bgillespie@osbf.net or 614-487-4474.

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By Priya Sonty, J.D.Program Coordinator Moot Court and Mock Trial programs

In the last issue of the Reporter, we announced OCLREs new Moot Court

program. After the close of a successful first year, OCLRE is reflecting on how everything came together, and if you werent able to join us last year, this article will inspire you to participate in 2015!

So, how does Moot Court differ from Mock Trial? Moot Court is all about the appellate process when, following a trial verdict, one of the parties seeks to appeal the decision to a higher court. In Moot Court, there is no jury, no witnesses, and no presentation of evidence, all of which are elements of a trial. Instead, an attorney advocates the position of his/her client to a panel of volunteer attorney judges. Judges may interrupt at any time to ask questions or attempt to dismantle an argument by highlighting case facts that are unfavorable to the students position. Students must be prepared to think on their feet in order to answer judges questions. They will likely have to deviate from prepared remarks, only to have to get back on track. While Mock

Trial is all about proving the validity and persuasiveness of the facts of a case, Moot Court requires that students argue whether the trial decision was correct as a matter of interpretation of law and policy. Furthermore, the writing component of Moot Court sets the competition apart if students dont have a chance to fully make their argument orally in front of the judges during questioning, there is opportunity to lay out every piece of their thought process in the form of a persuasive legal brief. Briefs are also reviewed and scored by volunteer attorneys.

The skills that Moot Court hones are those essential to being an exceptional attorney advocate. An advocate must be knowledgeable about the law, masterful in determining when to emphasize which facts, compliant with court decorum and proper procedure, mindful of due process, fair-minded and respectful toward adversaries, devoted to their client, helpful to the court, honest, and above all, credible and persuasive. Writing a brief highlights the important skill of analyzing a large volume of information and distilling it, learning how to distinguish fact from opinion, and organizing an argument by the students determination

of what the important issues are rather than by a chronological narrative of facts. A student must not only know the best facts, but also which facts are detrimental and why, and how to defend against them. Preparing oral arguments helps students develop presentation skills as well as professionalism and ethics. They learn how to apply law to facts, to structure and rank legal arguments by strength, and how to maintain composure when interrupted by a judge. Overall, participation in Moot Court builds character. Students are often each others best teachers, and the interactions they have with one another through team-building and competing against adversaries will teach them a lot about leadership skills and group problem-solving.

OCLRE is excited to develop the 2015 Moot Court case with the help of its case and competition committees, and we look forward to recruiting the participation of even more schools and students in the coming year.

If you are wondering how to get involved in OCLREs Moot Court program, or would like more information, please contact me at psonty@oclre.org.

Moot Court Program Off to a Fabulous Start

SponsorsSupreme Court of OhioAttorney General of OhioOhio State Bar AssociationAmerican Civil Liberties Union of Ohio Foundation

Corporate & Charitable FundersOhio State Bar FoundationColumbus State Community CollegeKroger

$500 - $999AnonymousRichard Dove, Esq.

$200 - $499Lisa EschlemanJohn QuinnMarion Smithberger

$100 - $199Douglas Buchanan & Christine ArdleyThomas Friedman, Esq.

$50 - $99Andrew Markiewitz, in honor of Steve Reger & Dan Wenstrup

$26 - $49Carrie Gleeson, in honor of Dave ChordasMichael & Laura Jaffe, in honor of Robert RiveraSusan Hamlin ScanlonVicky Unger, in memory of Diana Meeks

Up to $25Daniel StrunkTCS Software

Thank You, Donors!The Ohio Center for Law-Related Education is grateful to the following individuals and organizations for their kind and generous sup-port of our mission to partner with teachers to bring citizenship to life. Donations listed were given between August 1, 2013 and July 31, 2014. Many parents recognized teachers who have made a difference in their childrens lives. Congratulations and thank you!

Dissent is not sacred; the right of dissent is Thurman Arnold

Reporter NON-PROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGEPAIDCOLUMBUS, OHIOPERMIT NO. 4247

P.O. Box 16562Columbus, Ohio 43216-65621700 Lake Shore DriveColumbus, Ohio 43204614-485-3510Toll free 877-485-3510www.oclre.org

2014-2015 Schedule of EventsSEPTEMBER20 Mock Trial professional development21 Law and Citizenship Conference22 Law and Citizenship Conference

OCTOBER15 We the People professional development

NOVEMBER5 Youth for Justice/Project Citizen professional development13 Moot Court professional development18 Middle School Mock Trial professional development

JANUARY13 Ohio Government in Action (tentative)14 Ohio Government in Action (tentative)23 We the People High School Competition30 High School Mock Trial District Competition

FEBRUARY20 High School Mock Trial Regional Competition

MARCH12 High School Mock Trial State Finals13 High School Mock Trial State Finals 14 High School Mock Trial Championship Round18 Moot Court professional development APRIL15 Middle School Mock Trial Showcase16 Middle School Mock Trial Showcase17 Middle School Mock Trial Showcase MAY12 Middle School We the People Showcase15 Project Citizen/Youth for Justice Virtual Summit19 Moot Court Competition