Missouri teachers express gratitude for Show Me the Constitution mock congressional hearing competition
Each spring, The Missouri Bar’s citizenship education department hosts Show Me the Constitution. The mock congressional hearing competition offers high school students across the state the opportunity to gain firsthand experience with civic discourse and today’s complex constitutional questions.
During the competition, teams of students take on the role of experts testifying about constitutional issues before a congressional committee, composed of three judges. The format brings constitutional principles to life while developing critical thinking and civil debate skills.
William Keczkemethy, coach of the Joplin High School team which finished in first place at the 2025 competition, praised the program for bringing civic education to life for his students.
“It is student-led, research-based, and allows for an element of competition. Students work cooperatively to engage with principles of our democracy and issues of current public policy through thoughtful research, discussion, and writing,” Keczkemethy said. “I encourage educators to get involved; SMTC is the most powerful program in the state of Missouri for developing informed, active citizens.”
Central High School teacher Joel Slingerland, described it as “the ultimate academic challenge for students.”
“The questions are complex and capture some of the major challenges our Constitution faces in an ever-changing world …” Slingerland said. “There is nothing else quite like it in the realm of civics education.”
Seneca High School teacher Crystal Charles echoed that sentiment, stating the competition is “the very definition of an authentic assessment.”
“Students come away with not only a deeper understanding of the Constitution and foundational documents, but also the experience of participating in civil discourse — an essential skill needed today,” Charles said.
Jennifer Wells, of Kickapoo High School in Springfield, appreciates that the competition allows her students to engage with constitutional principles in ways other than memorization or classroom activities.
“Our style of government requires each succeeding generation to ‘take on’ democratic values and hold fast to our constitutional principles …” Wells said. “Show Me the Constitution creates that space for students — the competition is as open to you as you are to it.”
Interested in bringing a team to next year’s Show Me the Constitution? Email CitizenshipEducation@mobar.org.
View photos from this year’s Show Me the Constitution competition here.
The Missouri Bar citizenship education department hosts numerous events throughout the year and provides resources that can be implemented in the classroom. View dozens of resources at MissouriLawyersHelp.org.