Civics Education: So, You Think You Know Your Government?

 In this new noncredit, 10-week program, participants will gain firsthand knowledge about our Constitution, the court system, immigration, criminal and civil cases, and many more aspects of our government that every citizen should know.

 A rotation of highly distinguished judges will lead the weekly classes and highlight a specialized field of the government through a highly accessible, engaging and interactive forum.

How to Register Visit: www.ccp.edu/civics  to view the complete schedule and curriculum, and register. Classes will take place on select Mondays from 6 to 6:50 p.m. Hurry, registration is limited to 100 participants. There is a $50 fee for the entire 10-week program. Please note that you may not use financial aid as payment for this program.

Location
Center for Business and Industry
18th and Callowhill streets, Room C2-28
Philadelphia, PA 19130

Among the classes and topics scheduled:

September 16   Introduction: Marjorie O. “Midge” Rendell, Senior U.S. Circuit Judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit provides an overview of the government's framework. This introduction will include discussion about the Constitution and Bill of Rights, branches of the government and separation of powers

September 23   Courts: Presenters: Cheryl Krausel, a United States Circuit Judge of the United States Court of Appeals and Susan Gantman, a judge of the Pennsylvania Superior Court. What is the difference between state and federal courts? Explore their varying levels and roles, judicial independence, stare decisis or precedent, and rule of law

October 21       Criminal Law: Co-Presenters: Judge Theodore McKee, a United States Circuit Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit and Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Judge M. Teresa Sarmina (Rtd.)When can the government bring a case up against a defendant? Learn about criminal law through a comprehensive look at key cases and principles as well as the Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Amendments.

October 28       Immigration: Presenter: L. Felipe Restrepo, a United States Circuit Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit Immigration has consistently been a hot-button issue in this country. In this unit, learn about the history of immigration, examine case studies and discover the paths to citizenship.

November 25    Civil Discourse: Co-Presenters: Judge Cynthia M. Rufe, a United States District Judge of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and Judge Lawrence Stengel (ret.) How do we engage in conversation with others about the state of our country? Learn about the practice of respectful dialogue to enhance the understanding of an issue.

December 2       Civil Rights: Judge Gerald McHugh Gerald Austin McHugh Jr. is a United States District Judge of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania Ratified in 1868, the 14th amendment prohibits a state from “depriving any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.” In this section, participants will review laws prohibiting discrimination as a way to understand what due process and equal protection means within our legal system.

December 9      Conclusion: Co-Presenters: Judge Marjorie O. "Midge" Rendell and Judge Cynthia M. Rufe Wrapping up the last class, presenters will go over the topics and themes discussed throughout the course. Through this recapitulation, participants can glean new insights and formulate ideas about our country and its systems.

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About Community College of Philadelphia
Community College of Philadelphia is the largest public institution of higher education in Philadelphia and the sixth largest in Pennsylvania. The College enrolls approximately 28,000 students annually and offers day, evening, and weekend classes, as well as classes online. Visit the College at www.ccp.edu. Follow us on Twitter. Like us on Facebook.

Contact:
Linda Wallace
215-751-8082 (o), 713-302-9967 (c)
liswallace@ccp.edu