Constituting America Brings the Constitution to Life for BBMS Eighth Graders

Eighth grade history students at Barbara Bush Middle School took a closer look at the documents that helped shape the United States during a special visit from Constituting America on Sept. 15.

Hosted in the BBMS library, the presentation welcomed Professor Brandon Vanderford of the University of Texas at Arlington, who guided students through the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution in an engaging and accessible way. Students dug into the ideas behind the founding documents and considered how those principles continue to shape their lives and communities today.

For at least one student, the experience was a welcome surprise.

“This was better than I expected,” the student said. “I thought it was going to be a boring lecture, but it was interesting, and I actually enjoyed it.”

Each student received a pocket-sized copy of the U.S. Constitution to follow along with the presentation and take home as a resource. As students explored the document, the conversation moved beyond names, dates and historical events to what the Constitution means for them as individuals.

“It was helpful to know my rights and the rights of others,” another student said. “This helps me know what is possible for me or others.”

That connection between the Constitution and students’ own lives was at the heart of Vanderford’s message.

“I want kids to know that they matter,” Vanderford said. “You can be part of the democratic process. They don’t have to wait to be 18 to start going to city council meetings and impacting laws and change.”

The visit was part of Constituting America’s national educational outreach. The nonpartisan, nonprofit organization works to educate students and adults about the nonpartisan relevance of the U.S. Constitution and the principles of self-government found within America’s founding documents. Through classroom presentations, educational resources and contests, the organization encourages young people to better understand the Constitution and recognize their own role in civic life.

For BBMS eighth grade history teacher Mr. Toliver, that message directly supports what students are learning in the classroom.

“This opportunity is important because it emphasizes the importance of students’ voices in their community and country,” Toliver said.

The presentation also had some students looking ahead to the civic responsibilities they will gain as they get older.

“It made me want to start thinking about my future and when I will someday get the chance to vote,” one student said.

Students were also invited to participate in Constituting America’s annual "We the Future" Contest, a national competition that challenges young people to creatively explore the Constitution and America’s founding principles. Middle school students can compete in several categories, with winners eligible to receive scholarships and participate in an all-expenses-paid educational Mentor Trip.

By bringing Constituting America directly to campus, the visit gave BBMS students an opportunity to connect what they are learning in eighth grade U.S. history with the founding documents themselves. Students left the library with their own copy of the Constitution, a better understanding of their rights and a reminder that they do not have to wait until adulthood to begin finding their voice in their community and country.