Passed into federal law earlier this year, Senator Robert C. Byrd (D-WV) authored the legislation requiring all schools receiving federal funds, as well as all federal agencies, to provide materials about the Constitution on Sept. 17, commemorating the date in 1787 when the delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the nation's charter.
The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) is partnering with the West Virginia State Bar to bring Constitution Day to the state schools. The WVDE will distribute DVDs to the schools and posters will be made available to all fifth grade students.
Educators can plan their lessons around Constitution Day by clicking here http://wvde.state.wv.us/tt/2005/constitu.doc to view a list of helpful links. Click here to view a set of proposed lesson plans http://wvde.state.wv.us/tt/2005/constitu2.doc
“Most students know that July 4th is our nation's birthday, however, fewer Americans know that September 17th is the birthday of our government,” said Regina Scotchie, WVDE social studies coordinator. “Senator Byrd knows the importance of this document and why we need to celebrate its signing.”
For more information about Constitution Day, please contact Regina Scotchie at (304) 558-7805.