Trending Topic: Bridging the Civics Knowledge Gap Through Judicial-Led Initiatives
Atlanta, GA – August 21, 2025 – U.S. District Judge Richard W. Story of the Northern District of Georgia has issued a compelling call to action for law students to address the nation’s growing civics education deficit. Observing a troubling trend of widespread unfamiliarity with citizens’ rights and the judiciary’s role, Judge Story has spearheaded an innovative initiative that partners law students from Georgia State University, Mercer University, and the University of Georgia with metro Atlanta high schools to teach civics and basic legal concepts. This program, supported by financial contributions from Story himself, aims to inspire the next generation of engaged citizens, jurors, and legal professionals.
The initiative, which includes classroom instruction and mock trial events, encourages law students to serve as relatable mentors for high schoolers, conveying the relevance of the Constitution and the courts in everyday life. “I wanted to find a way to have a positive impact on the next generation of citizens, journalists, jurors, lawyers, judges, court professionals, and public officials,” Story said. “Law students can effectively connect with teenagers in ways that set them on a positive trajectory, whether or not they choose careers in the law.”
A Hands-On Approach to Civics
The program, notably Georgia State University’s Street Law initiative, allows law students to engage high schoolers through interactive lessons and mock trials, often presided over by Judge Story himself. On April 12, 2024, Georgia State law students hosted a mock trial event that captivated participants, with Story noting, “It’s great to see the high school students so fired up and engaged.” The hands-on approach helps students grasp complex concepts like the rule of law, judicial independence, and civic responsibilities, fostering critical thinking and civil discourse.
Duncan de la Feld, an attorney with Atlanta Legal Aid Society and a 2024 participant in the Street Law program, credited the experience with shaping his career in public interest law. “The program affirmed my passion for serving the community,” he said, encouraging current law students to get involved. The initiative’s flexibility allows each law school to tailor its approach to local needs, though Story emphasizes the importance of involving judges to humanize the judiciary.
Addressing a National Concern
Judge Story’s efforts align with a broader push within the federal judiciary to bolster civics education, as championed by Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. in his 2019 year-end report. Roberts emphasized that each generation must pass on “not only a fully functioning government responsive to the needs of the people, but the tools to understand and improve it.” This call has resonated across the country, with federal courts hosting teacher institutes, mock trials, and virtual programs to engage students and educators.
The urgency of improving civics education stems from a documented decline in civic engagement and knowledge. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, only 20–25% of students demonstrate proficiency in civics, a trend linked to decades of education policies prioritizing math and reading over social studies. This neglect has raised concerns about the future of American democracy, with judges like Story and others warning of the risks posed by an uninformed citizenry.
A Model for Nationwide Impact
Story’s initiative serves as a model for other jurisdictions, demonstrating how law students can bridge the gap between the judiciary and the public. By fostering human connections and providing practical exposure to legal principles, the program not only educates but also inspires confidence in the justice system. As Chief Judge Landya McCafferty of the District of New Hampshire noted, such outreach is “a part of my job as a federal judge,” refreshing and inspiring those involved.
As the nation grapples with declining trust in democratic institutions, Judge Story’s call to action underscores the vital role of civics education in preserving the rule of law. With law students at the forefront, this initiative offers a promising path to empower future generations to actively participate in and strengthen American democracy.
Sources: USCourts.gov, Law.com, NHB.uscourts.gov, AmericanBar.org