Civics Education | CONNECTIONS

Citizens' understanding of the fundamentals of civic rights and responsibilities of individuals and the history and functions of our government, including the role of the courts, helps to strengthen our democracy and the rule of law. Our civic education initiative supports educational institutions and other community organizations in developing age-appropriate interactive and engaging learning experiences.

With advance notice, we welcome court visits from school groups, mentorship program participants, and community groups throughout the Sixth Circuit, as well as dialogue on how we can assist educators in enhancing civic education. Civic education opportunities are potentially available every week day (other than national holidays).

In connection with court visits by classes, internship and mentorship programs, and in special programs for educators, we facilitate and assist in providing civic education training on the administration and development of the law, to high school students enrolled in law-focused courses, public school students enrolled in general social studies courses, and teachers in professional development programs.

In promoting these goals, we work closely with public entities, community groups and professional organizations. We look forward to expanding our civics education work and partnerships throughout the circuit.

Dayton Civics Initiative Takes Flight - Read More

Judge Michael Newman Meets Tipp City High School Students

Judge Michael J. Newman of the Southern District of Ohio with Career Law Clerk Michael Rhinehart and Teacher Randy Sentman during a visit by Judge Newman and Mr. Rhinehart to Mr. Sentman's high school civics class in Tipp City, Ohio on March 20, 2018. Judge Newman and Mr. Rhinehart met with multiple different civics classes taught by Mr. Sentman to teach the students about a number of topics including the importance of the Federal Courts; the workings of the three branches of government; and the manner in which Federal Judges apply the law fairly and appropriately to decide complicated disputes.

Judge Michael Newman Meets Versailles High School Students

Judge Michael J. Newman of the Southern District of Ohio and Career Law Clerk Michael Rhinehart meet with students at Versailles High School in Versailles, Ohio on March 13, 2018.

Judge Newman Meets with Students at Springboro Junior High

In January 2018, Judge Michael Newman, his career law clerk Mike Rhinehart, and his term law clerk LeighAnn Thomas met with approximately 500 8th grade students at Springboro Junior High School in Springboro, Ohio (near Dayton) to talk to these intermediate school students about the federal courts, the difference between criminal and civil cases, how federal judges decide cases, bench trials and jury trials, and the mediation of civil disputes. Judge Newman, Mr. Rhinehart, and Ms. Thomas answered the students' civics questions and discussed with them the importance of fairness and due process. The students also discussed career paths in the law.