August 2004

Lawyers for Learning program available for grade school children

The State Bar launched its Lawyers for Learning program last spring to encourage attorneys to volunteer in local elementary schools as a way to help first through fifth children learn about the law, to promote cooperation between the state and local bar associations, and to enhance the image of the legal profession.

The inaugural presentation, at Marquette Elementary School in Madison, was led by First Lady Jessica Doyle, then State Bar President-elect Michelle Behnke, and State Bar Law-related Education Committee Cochair Mike Tobin. In honor of the 50-year-old landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision, the first presentation focused on the Brown case. During the hour-long presentation, the speakers discussed the importance of laws, the way to challenge an unjust law in the court system, and the central role played by the Brown case in the nation's race relations.

The Lawyers for Learning activities are designed for an elementary audience - but can be adapted to a younger audience. The activities target issues such as fairness, authority, and respect for the rule of law while giving students an opportunity to interact with real lawyers and judges. The activities provide students an opportunity to role play and participate in mock trials.

Lawyers for Learning is part of an ongoing State Bar effort to educate the public about the value of lawyers and to showcase the important contributions that lawyers make in their communities.

Lawyers who are interested in giving a Lawyers for Learning presentation can access four easy-to-use activities, or contact Dee Runaas at (800) 444-9404, ext. 6191, or (608) 250-6191 or email drunaas@wisbar.org.

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