CBA Record September-October 2026

Bring the Constitution to Life with the CBA Edward J. Lewis II Lawyers in the Classroom Program By Kelli Landes, Director of Civic Education and Engagement, CBA Edward J. Lewis II Lawyers in the Classroom Program F or almost 40 years, Lawyers in the Classroom has been preparing students to become thoughtful, engaged citizens and future leaders. Volunteer attorneys help students in grades 2–8 develop the critical thinking skills and civic under standing that strengthen our democracy. Civic participation is about much more than voting. It begins with learning to think critically as they evaluate different perspectives, use the Socratic method to ask thoughtful questions, understand the rule of law and the Constitution, and recognize that every citizen plays a role in building strong communities. LIC also introduces students to the legal profession, helping them see attorneys as leaders, problem solvers, and advocates. Every classroom visit broadens students’ understanding of how the law shapes everyday life and opens the door to future pos sibilities. Volunteering is simple and flexible, and LIC volunteers are fully supported. LIC pro vides standards-based, nonpartisan lesson plans, volunteer training, scheduling and ongoing staff support, and opportunities to serve in communities across Chicagoland.

The program has a particular need for bilingual volunteers, including Spanish speakers, to support classrooms request ing instruction in Spanish. Tomorrow’s civic leaders are sitting in today’s classrooms. By sharing just a few hours of your time, you can help students discover the power of civic par ticipation, strengthen their understand ing of the law, and invest in the future of our communities. To find out more about the Edward J. Lewis II Lawyers in the Classroom program, visit www.chi cagobar.org/LIC. Email your questions to LIC@chicagobar.org.

Sponsor or register at https://givebutter.com/2026LICCivicEducation

14 September/October 2026