Studying SCOTUS:  This class will examine pivotal Supreme Court cases, many of which interpret amendments to the Constitution.  We will begin by exploring the Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the Constitution and the subject of significant judicial review.  Students will gain an understanding of how to analyze a Supreme Court decision.  Students will also explore and synthesize multiple perspectives as we read dissenting opinions.

My aim is to make our study relevant to student interest and current disputes.  The first Supreme Court Case we will study is Tinker v. Des Moines, a landmark decision establishing parameters on student expression/protest at a high school.  As we progress, students can choose to study significant decisions on topics ranging from jury selection to voting rights, to religious freedoms to segregation and more.  Opportunities for inquiry abound.

We will also take a look at the Supreme Court’s docket this term, and survey relevant cases, crafting our own opinions on cases before the Court renders a decision.  Once the Court decides, we will have an opportunity to compare our conclusions to the Court’s decision.  This class aims to encourage and advance critical analysis, dialogue, and reflection on multiple perspectives.

This class will meet in person, and can also be joined via Zoom.

Rhonda Stern holds a doctorate in Curriculum Studies from DePaul University.  She also sits on the board of the Chicago Gifted Community Center and is the founder of Educational Enrichment Consulting.  Stern is passionate about teaching, learning, and preserving our environment. Stern has worked in the field of gifted and talented education since 2000. Originally trained as a lawyer, Stern graduated from Northwestern University’s Law School in 1982, and worked in the legal profession until 1998.

Minimum/maximum number of students: 4/7

Age range: 11+

Price: $

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Family must register for LOGYC Coop in order to sign up for classes.