The North Dakota We the People Program strengthens civic competence and responsibility for both students and adults. Through professional development for teachers, engaging classroom curriculum, a simulated congressional hearing competition, and a public We the People course for adults, the program helps participants better understand the U.S. Constitution, the principles of representative democracy, and the value of civic participation.
The Research
Independent studies show the program’s strong impact on civic knowledge and engagement:
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Higher Test Scores: Educational Testing Service found students significantly outperform peers on civics assessments.
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Stronger Democratic Values: Stanford research shows participants demonstrate greater political tolerance and commitment to democratic principles.
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Increased Civic Participation: Alumni report higher voter turnout and stronger community involvement than national averages.
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National Validation: The U.S. Department of Education has recognized the program’s powerful educational impact.
The Textbook
The 5th edition of We the People: The Citizen & the Constitution helps students understand our constitutional democracy. With six units and 39 lessons, it combines critical thinking and cooperative learning, culminating in a simulated congressional hearing. An online student resource center supports all levels.
Student Competition
This simulated congressional hearing is the program’s culminating activity.
Students act as expert witnesses, presenting arguments and answering questions based on the six units of the textbook. They demonstrate critical thinking, civic understanding, and public speaking skills in an authentic, competitive format.
The 2026 Summer Institute
JUNE 7–10 | BISMARCK, ND
The Summer Teacher Institute prepares educators to teach We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution.
Teachers explore the curriculum’s six units through interactive lessons and discussions, gaining strategies to engage students in learning about the Constitution, civic principles, and democratic participation.
Teachers interested in participating should email wethepeople@thestudynd.org
An application will be available soon.
Classes
The Study hosts thought-provoking online courses throughout the year to guide adult learners through We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution.
Learners Explore the Constitution in action, the Bill of Rights, and contemporary challenges in American democracy while building a deeper understanding of civic principles.
Why Support North Dakota We the People
A strong democracy depends on informed, engaged citizens.
Civic education is the foundation of that democracy—when students and adults understand how the government works, value American principles, and can engage in civil discourse, communities grow stronger and more resilient.
The North Dakota We the People program makes this possible by providing high-quality teacher training, a nationally recognized curriculum, and public courses for lifelong learners, helping to safeguard our democratic values for future generations.
SPONSORS
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Dave & Karla Ehlis
Jamie Stewart
Presenting Sponsor
$30,000+
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Exclusive designation as Presenting Sponsor of both the We the People State Finals and Summer Teacher Institute
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Top-tier logo placement on all event signage, print and digital materials, curriculum guides, and press releases
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Speaking opportunity at both the State Finals and Summer Institute
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Feature profile in our statewide newsletter and annual impact report
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Social media spotlight campaign throughout the academic year
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Recognition on Humanities North Dakota website for 12 months
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Opportunity to include branded materials in participant packets
Civic Leadership Sponsor
$20,000+
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Named as Civic Leadership Sponsor of either the State Finals or Summer Institute
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Prominent logo placement on event materials, website, and email campaigns
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Acknowledgment in opening event remarks and printed program
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Invitation to attend and be recognized at sponsored event
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Recognition via social media and e-newsletter
Classroom Champion
$12,000+
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Supports 10 classrooms with textbooks, curriculum, and student competition support
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Logo or name featured on the We the People website and State Finals materials
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Recognition in select promotional and post-event thank-you communications
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Opportunity to observe classrooms or attend State Finals
Teacher Advocate
$3,500+
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Covers full participation for one teacher at the Summer Institute (travel, lodging, registration, and materials)
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Name listed in printed program and on the We the People webpage
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Personalized certificate of appreciation, with photo and testimonial from the supported teacher
Constitution Circle
$1,200+
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Provides civics education resources and competition materials for one rural or tribal school
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Name listed on the We the People webpage and in the printed State Finals program
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Group recognition on social media and in donor acknowledgment emails
Become a Sponsor
Thank you for your interest in supporting civic education and constitutional literacy in North Dakota classrooms! Fill out the form below and our team will be in touch soon with next steps.