PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The Third Circuit Court of Appeals is making an appeal of its own.
It’s asking fifth and sixth graders in its jurisdiction to enter an essay contest on the rule of law.
The topic may sound a little advanced, but the judges are confident the kids can handle it.
Judge Marjorie Rendell is so passionate about civics education, she co-founded the Rendell Center to give elementary students hands-on lessons.
"It’s amazing at fifth and sixth grade what they can do and what they can accomplish," Rendell said.
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She believes they can handle the sophisticated topic of the rule of law, maybe even better than some adults.
"We’re seeing so many things in the news that make us wonder, ‘Gee, do we really understand how our government is supposed to work?'" she said.
Rendell explained that civics education used to be a hard sell, but since the Capitol insurrection, its importance has become evident.
There are even bipartisan bills in Congress to support it, she said, and she thinks it has to start early.
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"Every child by name in fifth and sixth grade should understand the rule of law," said Rendell.
She believes the essay contest is a way to promote that understanding across the Third District which includes Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and the Virgin Islands.
The judges are willing to go into classrooms and help, and the winners will get a trip to the court here in Philadelphia.
She urges teachers in all three states to get involved.
Click here for more about the contest.
