September is Constitution Month, local teachers can request a clasroom visit from a Humboldt Superior Court judge

 

In celebration of Constitution Month this September, the California Superior Court for Humboldt County invites teachers across Humboldt to request a classroom visit from a judge. 

This is the third annual celebration celebrated nationally on Constitution Day, September 17. The annual event celebrates the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787.   

“We feel honored to have a full month to celebrate a document that is the foundation of everything we do as judges, and is so important to us and our community,” said Judge Kelly Neel, presiding judge of the Superior Court for Humboldt County.  “And we’re thrilled about this opportunity to teach our community, especially students, why it is so important to them.” 

The program is supported by California Supreme Court Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, sponsor of the Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative.  Judges visited over 18 classrooms in Humboldt County this spring, from Redway to Trinidad, ranging from kindergarten through high school.  Throughout the state, judges met with students in K-12 public schools during the 2024-2025 school year. In total, over 400 visits were completed. Over 100 of them were during Constitution Month.   

“Constitution Month is a great opportunity to bring the law to life for students,” said Judge Neel. “These visits give young people a chance to ask questions, hear real-world examples, and engage directly with members of the judiciary.”  Classroom visits are available throughout the month of September and beyond, and teachers from all grade levels are encouraged to participate.

Judges can tailor their presentations to match the age group, and curriculum needs of each classroom. In addition, the 2025 Civic Learning Awards will be presented to 35 schools named honorees by co-sponsors Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond.