A high school senior government class at Arvin High School, in California started studying We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution the first day of school. The class was divided into six groups corresponding to units of the textbook, though all students studied the entire text.

The students’ success is put into perspective when student demographics and the rigorous nature of the program in their congressional district are considered. Student demographics are 92% Latino, 78% free/reduced lunch, 40% migrant, and 30% ESL. Competition rules require that all students in the class participate; the program is not specifically designed for the best students.

Participant comments:

Before this year, I wasn't aware of all the rights the Constitution had given me. Being a part of this team has helped me learn so much more about what the Constitution protects and how that will help me in today's life and the future.

-Maria Duran, student

The week before the competition, I dropped off the team. I had no self-confidence and thought I couldn't help the team. Mr. Ruckman and Mr. Hallum [former Arvin We the People teachers] changed my mind. They helped and encouraged me. They convinced me I would never know if I could have done it, if I didn't try. I faced my fears and overcame them, and it feels great. This has been my greatest success.

-Gabriela Lopez, student

When it’s over, you want it to keep going. You have so much still to say.

-Adriana Villagomez, student

Once I knew I wanted to teach, I wanted to teach We the People. Nothing else has ever shown me what hard work can do.

-Robert Ruckman, Arvin High School teacher and We the People alumnus

Principal Blanca Cavalos testifies to the efficacy of the program: her own children participated.


In March 2005, California Assemblyman Kevin McCarthy introduced Assembly Constitutional Resolution 30 urging the State Board of Education and local school boards to increase emphasis on civic education in California’s public schools. The press release cites We the People as a “worthwhile program currently teaching students about the importance of civil rights and responsibility.”