Constitution Day at Ohio Southern brings history to life for high school students

Conversations about the Constitution often start in textbooks, but this year they will take center stage in an interactive program at .

On Sept. 17, high school juniors from across the region will gather for Constitution Day, a civic education event designed to bring America鈥檚 founding document to life.

The day will connect directly to , the nationwide commemoration of the nation鈥檚 upcoming 250th anniversary, by encouraging students to see the Constitution not just as a historic text but as a living framework that still shapes their daily lives. Through keynote presentations, small-group activities and a student-led mock trial, participants will explore the separation of powers, federalism and the Bill of Rights in ways that blend history with real-world application.

Dean Deborah Marinski said the program reflects the University鈥檚 role as both an educational and community hub.

鈥淲e want students to walk away with more than knowledge. We want them to feel ownership of the Constitution,鈥� said Marinski. 鈥淏y debating, presenting and even acting out constitutional principles, they learn that democracy is not a spectator activity. It depends on their voices and their participation.鈥�

Students will take part in discussions that link constitutional articles to modern issues, examine how rights are protected and contested, and step into the role of citizens, lawmakers and jurors through hands-on activities. The format is designed to complement classroom instruction while providing an engaging space where civic education feels relevant and memorable.

Brea Kitts, an American history teacher at Chesapeake High School who is helping guide the program, said the interactive approach is intentional.

鈥淐onstitution Day is more than a history lesson, it鈥檚 a reminder that the freedoms and responsibilities we enjoy today were secured through vision, courage and debate,鈥� she said. 鈥淏ringing our juniors across the region together to celebrate Sept. 17 helps them see that the Constitution is not just a document from 1787, but a living framework that empowers them to be informed, engaged citizens.鈥�

Constitution Day at 花季传媒 Southern is free to participating schools and will provide each student with a copy of the Constitution to take home. The program is supported by local educators, community leaders and America 250 Lawrence County. For more information or to RSVP, contact Robert Pleasant.