[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 68 (Thursday, May 23, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Pages S4834-S4835]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        TAHLEQUAH STUDENTS RECOGNIZED AS CONSTITUTIONAL SCHOLARS

 Mr. NICKLES. Mr. President, on May 4-6, more than 1,200 young 
people from across the country came to Washington, DC to compete in the 
national finals of the ``We the People: The Citizen and the 
Constitution'' program funded by the Department of Education and 
administered by the Center for Civic Education. This program teaches 
students to think critically, and to present oral arguments based on an 
in-depth understanding of the history and text of our founding 
documents. This is the most extensive education program of its kind, 
reaching more than 26.5 million students in elementary, middle and high 
schools. The competition simulates a congressional hearing whereby 
students testify as constitutional experts before a panel of adult 
judges. It is inspiring to see the future leaders of our Nation in 
active pursuit of the fundamental principles of government.
  I am pleased that 15 students from Tahlequah High School in 
Tahlequah, Oklahoma were among the finalists in this national event. My 
congratulations go out to Chris Augerhole, J. R. Baker, Chad Blish, 
Ryan Cannonie, Taylor Gibson, Carlton Heard, Corbin Heard, Zach Israel, 
Doug Kirk, Helena Loose, Lacie Newman, Tim Pace, Rebecca Walker, Derek 
Whaler, Brandon Zellner, and their teacher Norma Boren.
  Independent studies by the Educational Testing Service revealed that 
students enrolled in this curriculum ``significantly outperformed 
comparison students on every topic.'' While only 48 percent of 18-30-
year-olds voted in the 2000 elections, 82 percent of ``We the People'' 
alumni reported voting in 2000. It is refreshing to see the difference 
that can be made in the lives of students when they are taught to 
develop reasoned commitments to American values.
  Again, I want to affirm the efforts of Tahlequah High School along 
with all the students across the country that participate in this study 
of our great Nation. We all know today's youth are tomorrow's leaders. 
Through their understanding of history, these students

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can better prepare their generation to face the challenges that lie 
ahead. They represent the best and brightest our country has to 
offer.

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