Awareness. Comprehension. Engagement. All of these are evident as students from Prescott, Wisconsin, make their opinions known and voices heard before the Wisconsin State Assembly Education Committee. After studying the issue of using American Indian imagery as mascots, students in Mr. Ryan’s class take the time to testify in support of Assembly Bill 35, a proposal to limit the use of race-based names and images from public school sports teams.

Lesson Resources:

Awareness

• What is state government?
• 
  Raising Awareness - Discussion starters for Taking a Stand

Comprehension

• Evaluating Evidence
  
  
• Providing good resources
  
  
• Understanding the Issue - A brief on Assembly Bill 35/Senate Bill 25

Engagement

• Assessing Student Experience
  
  
• Examples of Engagement in Taking a Stand:
  
  2:34 – 3:52  Researching and discussing the issue
  3:53 – 4:34  Organizing a demonstration; taking part
  4:35 – 5:01  T-shirt sales
  5:02 – 5:46  Preparing to testify; gathering evidence
  5:46 – End   Attending a public hearing; testifying
  
  
  
  

Video Selector:

Follow Up Stories:
TAKING A STAND:

R-E-S-P-E-C-T Wisconsin Legislature Gives Final Approval to Mascot Bill (PDF) (Press Release from State Representative Jim Soletski)

Legislators move to repeal mascots law
(Article from Janseville's GazetteXrta.com)

IN MY BACKYARD:

Update: Wind Siting
(Article from the Janesville Gazette - By GINA DUWE Sunday, Aug. 15, 2010)