Freeman HS team places second in national 'We the People' competition

A team from Henrico's Douglas Freeman High School took second place in the We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution National Finals, an annual competition that brings together high school students from throughout the nation to answer difficult questions about the U.S. Constitution. A team from Grant High School in Portland, Oregon won the event.

The competition, held in the Washington, D.C. area, was hosted by the Center for Civic Education, and 48 high school teams from 28 states and the District of Columbia competed in the 2024 national championship April 13-15. The event called upon the students' knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities to help them about the U.S. Constitution and its most important principles.

Questions ranged from the Constitution as a living document to how it protects human rights. Students were required to provide evidence to support their answers. Teams also were judged upon their ability to work together and communicate effectively during the debate and resolution sessions.

The competition drew participation from more than 1,000 students.

"This event and the countless hours of research, collaboration and teamwork leading up to this are civic education at its best," said Donna Phillips, vice president and chief program officer for the Center for Civic Education. "These students, with the support of their parents, teachers, and communities, challenged themselves to truly explore the depths of their knowledge of our Constitution, its principles and their historical significance and current relevance. They sharpened their skills of civil discourse while interacting with our hundreds of dedicated civic leaders and volunteers. These already engaged young citizens will continue to act on their desire to make positive change in their communities and our country."