Lake County Gazette

On September 17, Westminster Public Schools will observe Constitution Day, an annual event that recognizes the signing of the United States Constitution 238 years ago. Superintendent Dr. Jeni Gotto addressed the school community to highlight the importance of this foundational document and encourage engagement with its history and ongoing relevance.

Dr. Gotto stated, "On September 17, we pause to honor Constitution Day, a moment to reflect on the enduring significance of the United States Constitution. Signed 238 years ago, the Constitution is the bedrock of our nation’s civic life. Over the centuries, it has evolved through amendment, interpretation, and democratic practice - reflecting social change while preserving its core principles."

The district provides resources for parents, educators, and community members to learn about the Constitution from multiple perspectives. Dr. Gotto encouraged families to discuss with their children not only what is written in the document but also how it applies today: "We encourage families to engage their children in meaningful conversations about the Constitution, its diverse interpretations, and its relevance to contemporary society."

She emphasized listening and learning during times of disagreement: "In times of civil discord, it becomes even more important to listen, learn, and seek understanding from multiple perspectives. To that end, we are pleased to share resources from across the political spectrum, as well as primary sources and teaching aids, so that all members of our community may reflect thoughtfully on the Constitution’s meaning and role in our shared democracy."

Dr. Gotto added perspective for younger students: "As you talk with your children, help them to understand that this is not dry, boring text from some dusty pages of the past, but a story full of drama and unforgettable personalities and acts of bravery and heroism."

She concluded by stressing civic responsibility: "By exploring these resources together, we strengthen our civic understanding and renew our commitment to the principles of democracy, justice, and respect that the Constitution represents." She thanked families for their partnership in helping students become engaged citizens.

Westminster Public Schools offers a variety of educational materials covering different viewpoints on constitutional law. These include nonpartisan sources such as paired essays from scholars at The National Constitution Center; progressive materials like those from The American Constitution Society; conservative perspectives offered by organizations such as The Federalist Society; primary documents provided by The National Archives; and classroom aids available through The Library of Congress.

The Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 serves Lake County schools including Andrew Cooke Magnet Elementary School among others https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/. This district's student population is predominantly Hispanic at nearly 80 percent https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/. There are over one thousand teachers employed within District 60 who earn an average salary above $63,000 per year https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/, with no teachers reporting more than ten absences annually according to state data https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/. In fiscal year 2020 spending per student reached over $23 thousand dollars https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/.