Copyright © Kathy Hand

We the People is a civics education program that covers the history and principles of constitutional democracy in the United States. Since its inception in 1987, more than 28 million students and 75,000 educators have participated in the We the People Program. Nationally, the program is coordinated by the Center for Civic Education, which partners with state organizations, like Civics Education Washington State.

We the People culminates in simulated congressional hearings, where teams of students testify before a panel of judges acting as members of Congress. Teachers can invite community members (such as judges, elected officials, academics, and lawyers) to be on the panel in the classroom. In addition, students can participate in a state competition held on the Capitol Campus in Olympia or even the National Finals in the Washington, D.C. area!

Through the We the People program, students develop the skills needed to become effective and responsible citizens. Students develop a stronger understanding and willingness to use the democratic process to make decisions.

What is We the People?

Civic Education Washington State provides complimentary training and clock hours for teachers and can also provide participating teachers with a complimentary set of classroom textbooks. We can also help to connect teachers with volunteers in the community.

Civics Education Washington State also puts on an annual state competition in Olympia. The winning team receives $15,000 toward participation in the National Finals in the Washington D.C. area.

We the People is available for elementary, middle school, and high school students. It can be taught through classroom instruction or extracurricular clubs.

Please check our Trainings page for information about opportunities to learn more about bring the We the People curriculum to your classroom!

Who Can Participate in We the People?

How Does Civics Education Washington State Help?

The state competition in Olympia features many highlights for students, including:

• An address from state leaders, which have included chief justices of the Washington State Supreme Court and the Lieutenant Governor;
  
• Feedback from civic leaders from around the state;
  
• Free pizza lunch; and
  
• An opportunity to stand in the gallery of the Washington State Senate.
  

​

Local Media Coverage of We the People

TOLL FREE: +1.2062443463

Fun at the Capitol!

We the People Explanation

(Civic Education Washington State)

Examples of Student Hearings

How Can I Get Involved? 

An Introduction to We the People (Parts 1 and 2)

(Center for Civic Education)