The Louisiana Center for Law & Civic Education 

The Louisiana Center for Law and Civic Education (LCE) is a non-profit organization that coordinates, implements and develops Law and Civic Education programs, trains others in the delivery of Law and Civic Education, assists with the delivery of quality Law and Civic Education programs throughout the State of Louisiana.

Our programs are nationally recognized and conform to the State of Louisiana's Social Studies Content Standards. Best of all, our lesson plans and programs are interactive which transform the law and civic education learning process in to pure fun for Louisiana students. In a nutshell, we make Law and Civic Education come alive in the classroom!

The LCE is a member of the Louisiana's Commission on Civic Education enacted into law by the Louisiana Legislature in 2003.The Commission was created to educate students in the community and schools on the importance of citizen involvement in a representative democracy and to promote communication and collaboration among organizations in the state that conduct civic education programs.

Why is Civic Education Important? Studies show that:

• Only 25% of students at upper elementary and secondary levels are proficient in civics and government. (National Assessment of Educational Progress)
• Less than 20% of 18-25 year-olds voted in the last presidential campaign. (National Association of Secretaries of State)
• 94% of youth believe "the most important thing I can do as a citizen is to help others."
• Non-political voluntarism among youth has increased while political voluntarism has decreased.

Who Supports Our Work?

LCE partners with several entities. We have support from the Louisiana State Bar Association, the Louisiana Bar Foundation as well as various private and public grants. We also partner with schools, state and federal courts and law enforcement agencies. We hold a fund raiser entitled Red, White, Blue and You which has served as a successful link with the community. The LCE is a member of the Southern Coalition on Civic Education and Engagement.

What is Law & Civic Education?

It is instruction that teaches about legal rights, responsibilities, and the role of the responsible citizen - the fourth "R"- and has students practice application of that teaching to potential real - life situations. It is essentially a critical thinking, problem-solving approach to education built around the civic content of rules, laws, and the legal system. Law and Civic Education provides an opportunity for students to foster bonds with representatives of the legal system and the overall community.