We’re excited to invite you to a celebration of Civics read-aloud designed to connect with and inspire the next generation to be knowledgeable and active citizens. Below are the book selections:

• What Can a Citizen Do? by Dave Eggers

• Democracy for Dinosaurs by Laurie Krasny Brown and Marc Brown

• Her Right Foot by Dave Eggers

What to Expect:

Volunteer lawyers and judges will virtually visit classrooms to read selected children’s books that promote responsible and active citizenship and community service.

• Each session lasts up to 30 minutes

• Ideal for students in grades 1–5

• Includes interactive discussions where students can ask questions, reflect on what they heard, and share their thoughts

For Students, This Experience:

• Fosters critical thinking by exploring the meaning of justice and the responsibilities of good citizenship.

• Promotes literacy through engaging, age-appropriate stories.

• Enables students to gain the knowledge, skills, and disposition of actively engaged citizens.

• Promotes interest in the law to young people.

• Celebrates the U.S. Constitution and the Rule of Law.

• Offers a way to give back to the community and help to preserve our democracy.

For Lawyers and Judges, This Is an Opportunity To:

• Give back: Inspire the next generation with your knowledge and passion

• Make an impact: Help young students understand the role of law in everyday life

• Engage meaningfully: Use carefully chosen books to foster thoughtful conversations on legal themes in a fun, age-appropriate way

  Register Now!

We’re excited to invite you to a Women’s History Month read-aloud that celebrates the voices, stories, and impact of influential American girls and women. This year’s featured books are:

• All Rise: the Story of Ketanji Brown Jackson by Carole Boston Weatherford

• I Dissent by Debie Levi

• The Youngest Marcher: The story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist by Cythia Levinson

• Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed

What to Expect:

Volunteer lawyers and judges will virtually visit classrooms to read selected children’s books that celebrate the contributions of women and girls who have shaped our nation’s history, leadership, and democratic ideals.

• Each session lasts up to 30 minutes

• Ideal for students in grades 1–5

• Includes interactive discussions where students can ask questions, reflect on what they heard, and share their thoughts

For Students, This Experience:

• Builds historical knowledge by introducing students to the impact made by important American Women throughout US History.

• Connects past to present by helping students see how the bravery and actions of our nation’s heroes shape their lives today.

• Fosters critical thinking by exploring the meaning of justice and the responsibilities of good citizenship.

• Promotes literacy through engaging, age-appropriate stories.

For Lawyers and Judges, This Is an Opportunity To:

• Give back: Inspire the next generation with your knowledge and passion

• Make an impact: Help young students understand the role of law in everyday life

• Engage meaningfully: Use carefully chosen books to foster thoughtful conversations on legal themes in a fun, age-appropriate way

  Register Now!

We’re excited to invite you to a Black History Month read-aloud that celebrates the voices, stories, and achievements of prominent African-American leaders while inspiring young learners to understand and value our shared history. This year’s featured books are:

• ABCs of Black History by Rio Cortez

• I am Ruby Bridges by Ruby Bridges

• Before She was Harriet by Lesa Cline-Ransome

What to Expect:

Volunteer lawyers and judges will virtually visit classrooms to read selected children’s books that honor the influential Black leaders whose contributions have shaped our nation’s history, leadership, and democratic ideals.

• Each session lasts up to 30 minutes

• Ideal for students in grades 1–5

• Includes interactive discussions where students can ask questions, reflect on what they heard, and share their thoughts

For Students, This Experience:

• Builds historical knowledge by introducing students to the impact made by important Black American leaders throughout US History.

• Connects past to present by helping students see how the bravery and actions of our nation’s heroes shape their lives today.

• Fosters critical thinking by exploring the meaning of justice and the responsibilities of good citizenship

• Promotes literacy through engaging, age-appropriate stories

For Lawyers and Judges, This Is an Opportunity To:

• Give back: Inspire the next generation with your knowledge and passion

• Make an impact: Help young students understand the role of law in everyday life

• Engage meaningfully: Use carefully chosen books to foster thoughtful conversations on legal themes in a fun, age-appropriate way

Register Now!

We’re excited to invite you to a Presidents Day read-aloud that brings the stories of our nation’s leaders to life and helps young learners connect with the core principles of democracy. This year’s featured books are:

• Of Thee I Sing by Barack Obama

• I am George Washington by Brad Meltzer

• I am Abraham Lincoln by Brad Meltzer

• Grace for President by Kelly DiPucchio

What to Expect:

Volunteer lawyers and judges will virtually visit classrooms to read aloud selected children’s books to recognize past Presidents and honor their contributions to the country’s history, leadership, and democratic ideals.

• Each session lasts up to 30 minutes

• Ideal for students in grades 1–5

• Includes interactive discussions where students can ask questions, reflect on what they heard, and share their thoughts

For Students, This Experience:

• Builds historical knowledge by introducing students to important presidents and their impact

• Connects past to present by helping students see how presidential actions shape their lives today

• Fosters critical thinking by exploring the meaning of justice and the responsibilities of good citizenship

• Promotes literacy through engaging, age-appropriate stories

For Lawyers and Judges, This Is an Opportunity To:

• Give back: Inspire the next generation with your knowledge and passion

• Make an impact: Help young students understand the role of law in everyday life

• Engage meaningfully: Use carefully chosen books to foster thoughtful conversations on legal themes in a fun, age-appropriate way

Register Now!

Join the ABOTA Foundation and the Rendell Center as we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a special Read Aloud program.

We’re excited to invite you to be part of a meaningful educational experience that brings the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to life for young learners. This year’s featured books are:

I am Martin Luther King, Jr. by Brad Meltzer

I Have a Dream by Martin Luther King, Jr.

What to Expect:
Volunteer lawyers and judges will virtually visit classrooms to read aloud selected children’s books that highlight important themes of law, justice, and Dr. King’s dream for the future of the United States of America.

• Each session lasts up to 30 minutes

• Ideal for students in grades 1–5

• Includes interactive discussions where students can ask questions, reflect on what they heard, and share their thoughts

For Students, This Experience:

• It helps students gain meaningful historical understanding of Dr. King’s life and legacy.

• It encourages empathy, inclusion, and discussions about justice.

• It inspires students to connect Dr. King’s message to their own actions and choices.

• Fosters critical thinking by exploring the meaning of justice and the responsibilities of good citizenship

• Promotes literacy through engaging, age-appropriate stories

For Lawyers and Judges, This Is an Opportunity To:

• Give back: Inspire the next generation with your knowledge and passion

• Make an impact: Help young students understand the role of law in everyday life

• Engage meaningfully: Use carefully chosen books to foster thoughtful conversations on legal themes in a fun, age-appropriate way

Join the ABOTA Foundation and the Rendell Center for the 2025 Bill of Rights Week Read Aloud Celebration!

We’re excited to invite you to be part of a meaningful educational experience that brings the law to life for young learners. This year’s featured books are:

• The Power of Her Pen: The Story of Groundbreaking Journalist Ethel L. Payne by Lesa Cline-Ransome

• Noodlephant by Jacob Kramer and K-Fai Steele

• Snowballs for Severance by Richie Frieman

What to Expect:

During Bill of Rights Week, volunteer lawyers and judges will virtually visit classrooms to read aloud selected children’s books that highlight important themes of law, justice, and civic responsibility.

• Each session lasts up to 30 minutes

• Ideal for students in grades 1–5

• Includes interactive discussions where students can ask questions, reflect on what they heard, and share their thoughts

For Students, This Experience:

• Makes complex legal concepts accessible and fun

• Highlights the importance of the Constitution and our judicial system

• Encourages curiosity about law and civic engagement

• Fosters critical thinking by exploring the meaning of justice and the responsibilities of good citizenship

• Promotes literacy through engaging, age-appropriate stories

For Lawyers and Judges, This Is an Opportunity To:

• Give back: Inspire the next generation with your knowledge and passion

• Make an impact: Help young students understand the role of law in everyday life

• Engage meaningfully: Use carefully chosen books to foster thoughtful conversations on legal themes in a fun, age-appropriate way

Join Us For This Exciting Annual Civics Learning Event!

Attending the National Council of Social Studies Annual Conference this year? Come visit our booth to receive information, swag, and enter our giveaways! We will be at Booth 352!

Click here for more information about the 2025 NCSS Annual Conference.

Honor Veterans Day with a special virtual event designed to bring the stories of service and sacrifice directly to your classroom!

Our Veterans Day Virtual Read Aloud Program connects elementary school students with veterans from across the country, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the values of bravery, teamwork, and civic duty through engaging stories.

In this interactive program, veterans will read children’s books that highlight themes of courage, citizenship, and the importance of giving back to the community. After the reading, students will have a chance to participate in a Q&A session with the veterans, giving them an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about military service and the role of veterans in our society.

Program Highlights:

• Veterans as Storytellers: Veterans from different branches of the military will serve as guest readers, sharing inspiring stories that reflect the importance of service.

• Live Virtual Experience: Students will engage with veterans in real time through a live virtual platform, allowing for direct interaction and meaningful dialogue.

• Interactive Discussions: The Q&A session following the read aloud encourages students to connect with veterans, ask questions, and reflect on the lessons of the day.

Selected Books:

• The Impossible Patriotism Project by Linda Skeers

• My Red Balloon by Eve Bunting

• Hero Mom by Melinda Hardin

• Hero Dad by Melinda Hardin

This virtual Veterans Day event is a powerful way to teach students about the significance of the holiday, while fostering an appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who have served our country. Bring your students together to celebrate Veterans Day in a way that is both educational and inspiring!

Join Us For This Exciting Annual Civics Learning Event!

Join us for a special Election Day Read Aloud, where we inspire young minds to understand the importance of voting! Designed for students in K-5, this interactive and engaging program will explore why voting is a cornerstone of democracy and how every citizen’s voice makes a difference.

Through captivating stories, our guest readers — including lawyers, judges, and community leaders — will highlight the power of choice, citizenship, and participation in shaping our country’s future. Students will learn about the electoral process in a fun, age-appropriate way, emphasizing the value of civic responsibility. The sessions will last 30 minutes and will include a question-and-answer session.

Read Alouds selected:

• I Voted: Making a Choice Makes a Difference by Mark Shulman

• A Vote is a Powerful Thing by Catherine Stier

What to Expect:

Volunteer lawyers, judges, and veterans will virtually visit classrooms across to read aloud selected children’s books that highlight important themes of democracy, elections, and Veterans contributions.

• Each session lasts up to 30 minutes

• Ideal for students in grades 1–5

• Includes interactive discussions where students can ask questions, reflect on what they heard, and share their thoughts

For Students, This Experience:

• Highlights the importance of voting for our country

• Encourages curiosity about law and civic engagement

• Promotes literacy through engaging, age-appropriate stories

For Lawyers and Judges, This Is an Opportunity To:

• Give back: Inspire the next generation with your knowledge and passion

• Make an impact: Help young students understand the role of law in everyday life

• Engage meaningfully: Use carefully chosen books to foster thoughtful conversations on legal themes in a fun, age-appropriate way

Join Us For This Exciting Annual Civics Learning Event!

Join the ABOTA Foundation and the Rendell Center for the 2025  Hispanic Heritage Month Read Aloud Celebration!

We’re excited to invite you to be part of a meaningful educational experience that brings a celebration of Citizenship and Community to life for young learners. This year’s featured books are:

• Turning Pages: My Life Story by Sonia Sotomayor

• Dreamers by Yuyi Morales (K-3rd grade)

• Separate Is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and Her Family’s Fight for Desegregation by Duncan Tonatiuh (4-6th grade)

What to Expect:

Volunteer readers, lawyers and judges will virtually visit classrooms to read aloud selected children’s books that highlight important themes of law, justice, and civic responsibility.

• Each session lasts up to 30 minutes

• Ideal for students in grades 1–5

• Includes interactive discussions where students can ask questions, reflect on what they heard, and share their thoughts

For Students, This Experience:

• Makes complex legal concepts accessible and fun

• Highlights the importance of the Constitution and our judicial system

• Encourages curiosity about law and civic engagement

• Fosters critical thinking by exploring the meaning of justice and the responsibilities of good citizenship

• Promotes literacy through engaging, age-appropriate stories

For Lawyers and Judges, This Is an Opportunity To:

• Give back: Inspire the next generation with your knowledge and passion

• Make an impact: Help young students understand the role of law in everyday life

• Engage meaningfully: Use carefully chosen books to foster thoughtful conversations on legal themes in a fun, age-appropriate way

Join Us For This Exciting Annual Civics Learning Event!

Share stories that build kindness, empathy, and respect, take a stand against bullying!

Join the ABOTA Foundation and the Rendell Center for the 2025 Anti-Bullying Month Read Aloud Celebration!

We’re excited to invite you to be part of a meaningful educational experience that brings a celebration of Citizenship and Community to life for young learners. This year’s featured books are:

• Just Ask! Be Different, Be Brave, Be You by Sonia Sotomayor

• Just Help! How to Build a Better World by Sonia Sotomayor

• Nobody by Beverly Frankel

What to Expect:

Volunteer readers, lawyers and judges will virtually visit classrooms to read aloud selected children’s books that highlight important themes of law, justice, and civic responsibility.

• Each session lasts up to 30 minutes

• Ideal for students in grades 1–5

• Includes interactive discussions where students can ask questions, reflect on what they heard, and share their thoughts

For Students, This Experience:

• Makes complex legal concepts accessible and fun

• Highlights the importance of the Constitution and our judicial system

• Encourages curiosity about law and civic engagement

• Fosters critical thinking by exploring the meaning of justice and the responsibilities of good citizenship

• Promotes literacy through engaging, age-appropriate stories

For Lawyers and Judges, This Is an Opportunity To:

• Give back: Inspire the next generation with your knowledge and passion

• Make an impact: Help young students understand the role of law in everyday life

• Engage meaningfully: Use carefully chosen books to foster thoughtful conversations on legal themes in a fun, age-appropriate way

Join Us For This Exciting Annual Civics Learning Event!

The ABOTA Civics Summit returns for its 2nd year! Join us at the Annenberg Public Policy Center at the University of Pennsylvania on June 26-27, 2025, for a 2-day professional development event for educators dedicated to fostering informed citizens. Connect with likeminded educators, share innovative strategies, and learn how to engage students in civic education. Travel and hotel will be covered.