Eligibility Requirements
Rising sixth through eighth graders (ages 11–13)
Location
Conviser Law Center
Dates/Time
Session One: June 10–14
This session will take place from 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Program Description
The Civics, Democracy, and Law Summer Legal Academy is a five-day legal immersion program for middle school students across the Chicago area.
Are you curious about civic engagement, law, or our democracy…becoming an activist, lawyer, or engaging in political and social issues? The goal of this week-long course is to enhance skill sets that are essential for students to progress successfully in academic and professional settings. Participants will experience interactive sessions focused on an exploration of governance, rights, and justice that will develop their communication, critical thinking, reading, and writing skills.
Through this uniquely designed curriculum, the Civics, Democracy and Law Summer Legal Academy will inspire participants to pursue higher education and careers in government, law, politics, and public policy, as well as equip them with the knowledge to become active participants in American civic and democratic institutions.
Example Activities
- Develop professional content (e.g., elevator pitch, resume, etc.)
- Discuss and read relatively short case opinions regarding topics impacting our democracy
- Hear from practitioners in government, law, politics, and public policy
- Practice and understand the mechanics of litigation through mock trial and oral arguments
- Tour the Chicago-Kent College of Law (including the courtrooms and library)
- Tour local government institutions (e.g., City Hall/County Building, the Daley Center, and the Dirksen Federal Building)
Instructor
Jaylin D. McClinton, contractual policy associate at the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation
Questions?
Questions about the application process? Email them to precollege@iit.edu.