We The People State Competition 

On December 13, the We The People team competed at the State competition in downtown Indianapolis, placing third in the state.

"In We the People, there is a specific focus on civics and the Constitution. I like to think of We the People as Constitutional Nerds," said Robert Pelkey, one of the WTP teachers, "covering historic origins of our Constitution and government to more modern applications and scenarios."

The class is structured into six units, each covering different topics dealing with the Constitution and civics. "The structure of the competition is split into six units, which each have unique questions they need to answer in a four-minute statement and prepare follow-up for up to eight minutes," said Pelkey. "There are three levels of competition: the first step is making it out of district by each unit delivering one of their prepared statements and follow-up for six minutes."

Students work in groups to fully digest the knowledge, as well as practice role-playing. "Preparation for competition is the combination of many hours of writing, researching and perfecting statements and follow-up," said Pelkey. "We the People is a co-curricular class, like our music programs. Work is done as much in class as it is outside of class. If you want to be good, work has to be done outside of the four walls of a classroom."

Like core subjects including math and science, civics is arguably just as important. "It is amazing how many adults and young adults fail to understand our systems of government and are easily persuaded by misinformation without questioning its authenticity," said Pelkey.

Photo Courtesy of Ruby Woodson

One of the most important aspects of WTP is the fact that the content covered is applied throughout one's lifetime. "We support the well-rounded learner. We want students to explore all avenues of education, but at the end of the day, it doesn't matter if you are a doctor, teacher, pizza delivery driver or in the military, you participate in civics and vote," said Pelkey.

As a WTP alum, Pelkey believes that this course is essential for all high school students. "I'd argue that We the People is a must-take course, based on how much students learn, not only about civics and government, but also how much students learn about themselves," said Pelkey. "I think young adults start to find themselves when it comes to controversial issues by researching and forming opinions on their own or through civil discourse with their peers."

In the next few years, Pelkey hopes that civic education becomes embedded within the curriculum of the school. "The United States needs good lawyers and civil servants and civics is how we get that done," said Pelkey. "I hope to see the program grow to include our middle school and get to the level of Nationals on a consistent basis."

Story by Ruby Woodson