We the People

We the People is open only to seniors in AP Government & Politics. The We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution Program promotes civic competence and responsibility among the nation’s upper elementary and secondary students. The We the People print textbooks' and enhanced ebooks' interactive strategies, relevant content and the simulated congressional hearing make teaching and learning exciting for both students and teachers. The We the People curriculum is an innovative course of instruction on the history and principles of the United States constitutional democratic republic. The program enjoys active support from state bar associations and foundations, and other educational, professional, business, and community organizations across the nation. Since its inception in 1987, more than 30 million students and 75,000 educators have participated in the We the People program.

The competition, held at the Edward M. Kennedy Institute, simulates congressional hearings where Auburn students compete against schools from all over Massachusetts. Topics include philosophers, the founding of America, and how the Constitution affects our day to day lives. The We the People team finished second place in the state competition.

For the last 10 years Auburn High School’s Advanced Placement United States Government & Politics class has competed in an academically demanding event known as the "We the People..." State Competition. Each year the competition, held in late January, is hosted by The Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the Senate (Formally held at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, and the John Joseph Moakley United States Courthouse.) Auburn was named 2014 & 2015 Massachusetts We the People State champions.[3] As state champions, Auburn High School represented Massachusetts at the national level in Washington, D.C. The team raised over $50,000 each year in order to get to Washington D.C., most of which came from the local Auburn community.

In 2016 & 2017 Auburn finished third in the state.  In 2018, Auburn finished second, and was named a State Wild Card for the 2018 National Competition.

We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution provides students with the opportunity to utilize and expand upon their knowledge regarding civic education by simulating congressional hearings. This program is the most extensive educational program in the country that prepares young adults to be active and informed citizens who are able to contribute to the betterment of society.[4]

Advisors: Spencer Kennard & Amy Paget