The PACE Commission, in collaboration with numerous other organizations, has initiated and implemented a number of civics education initiatives:
Maui Nui Law & Justice Academy
On the Valley Isle, the PACE Commission partnered with the UH Maui College, UH Mānoa William S. Richardson School of Law, Hawaii State Judiciary, Maui County Bar Association, and others to hold the three-day Maui Nui Law & Justice Academy.
From Oct. 4 to 6, this program engaged high school students from Maui, Molokai, and Lanai in activities and educational sessions to introduce them to issues of law and justice; build skills in discussion, debate, analysis, and advocacy; and provide tools and inspiration to become active, involved citizens in their respective communities. A number of judges, attorneys, educators, and others volunteered to participate in leading sessions, to serve as mentors for the students, and to help teach a mock trial case.
Speakers Bureau
The PACE Commission, in collaboration with the Judiciary and the Hawaii State Bar Association, plans to establish a speakers bureau for judges or attorneys to serve as speakers in schools statewide or at the Judiciary History Center, covering the three branches of government, the structure and role of the courts, the difference between state and federal governments, important cases, the criminal justice system, careers in law or government, and other civic education topics.
Elementary and High School Curricula
PACE Commission members are working on an elementary curriculum project to create presentations aligned with DOE requirements. PACE Commission members are also developing a curriculum for high school students that will meet two Hawaii Common Core Standards in social studies.
Civics Awareness Month Proclamation by Gov. David Ige
Gov. David Ige recognized the tremendous work underway across the state and declared October 2022 as “Civics Awareness Month.” Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald, who represented the Judiciary, and PACE Commission members joined Gov. Ige at the proclamation ceremony held on Oct. 7.
