Nevada We the People State Invitational
A celebration of student voice, constitutional learning, and civic leadership.
Each year, students from across Nevada come together for the We the People State Invitational, the culminating event of a year-long civic learning experience grounded in the study of the U.S. Constitution.
At the Invitational, student teams present researched constitutional testimony and respond to follow-up questions before panels of volunteer judges drawn from Nevada’s legal, civic, and academic communities. The event is both an authentic assessment and a celebration of student scholarship, confidence, and civic engagement.
January 31, 2026
University of Nevada, Reno
John Tulloch Business Building
The Nevada We the People State Invitational marks the culmination of months of classroom research, writing, and practice. Students demonstrate their understanding of constitutional principles through simulated congressional hearings, an experience that mirrors real democratic processes and emphasizes civil discourse, critical thinking, and collaboration.
The Invitational brings together:
Students and teachers from across Nevada
Volunteer judges from the legal and civic community
Alumni, elected leaders, and community partners
Families and supporters of civic education
Opening Ceremony
A shared welcome recognizing students, educators, volunteers, and partners who make civic learning possible.
Simulated Congressional Hearings
Student teams present prepared testimony and respond to judges’ questions on constitutional topics.
Activities & Community Fair
Students and guests engage with civic, educational, and community organizations. Plus Constitutional Trivia with prizes!
Awards & Recognition Ceremony
A celebration of student achievement, educator leadership, and community support.
View Full Hearing Schedule by clicking on the image above
Nevada’s We the People State Invitational brings together student teams from public, charter, and private schools across the state. Each team represents months of preparation and a deep commitment to thoughtful civic inquiry.
Many of the judges, speakers, and volunteers who support the Invitational are We the People alumni — former students who once stood in these same hearing rooms and now return to mentor and encourage the next generation.
Their continued involvement reflects the lasting impact of civic learning and the strong, connected community built through We the People in Nevada.
We invite you to stay connected and be part of this growing alumni network.
Click on the image above to learn more about our Alumni Network
The Invitational is made possible through the generosity of volunteer judges and event supporters who give their time, expertise, and encouragement to students.
Judges include attorneys, judges, educators, and civic leaders who help students refine their thinking, strengthen their communication skills, and experience respectful constitutional dialogue.
Volunteers support every aspect of the event — from logistics to student guidance — ensuring a meaningful experience for all participants.
Click on the image above to sign the thank you card for our judges & volunteers
Participating Teams
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Faith Lutheran Middle & High School
Middle School Teacher - Tish Carroll
High School Teacher - Joshua Tonniges
Mascot - Crusaders
Location - Summerlin, Nevada
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Reed High School
Teachers - Mark Towell & Kayla Karsten
Mascot - Raiders
Location - Sparks, Nevada
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Incline High School
Teacher - Milton Hyams
Mascot - Highlanders
Location - Incline Village, Nevada
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West Career & Technical Academy
Teacher - Ryan Handlon
Mascot - Wranglers
Location - Las Vegas, Nevada
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Reno High School
Teacher - Brien Karlin
Mascot - Huskies
Location - Reno, Nevada
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Doral Academy of Northern Nevada
Teacher - Sophia Blair, Scott Daniel, and Katie Anderson
Mascot - Dragons
Location - Reno, Nevada
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Northwest Career & Technical Academy
Teacher - Michael Lanager
Mascot - Hawks
Location - Las Vegas, Nevada
Honor a Student
Celebrate a student’s voice, effort, and growth
When students stand up at the We the People State Invitational to share what they’ve learned, they are doing more than answering questions — they are finding confidence, courage, and their civic voice.
Honoring a student is a way to recognize that moment.
An Honor a Student gift tells a young person:
I see your effort.
I believe in your potential.
Your voice matters.
These are the moments students remember long after the event ends.
Honor gifts support student recognition, teacher learning, and access to civic education for students across Nevada.
Doral Academy of Northern Nevada
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Faith Lutheran Middle School
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Faith Lutheran High School
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Incline High School
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Northwest Career & Technical Academy
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Reed High School
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Reno High School
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West Career & Technical Academy
Doral Academy of Northern Nevada · Faith Lutheran Middle School · Faith Lutheran High School · Incline High School · Northwest Career & Technical Academy · Reed High School · Reno High School · West Career & Technical Academy
Gratitude, Partnerships & What’s Next
The Nevada We the People State Invitational is made possible through the collective commitment of students, educators, judges, volunteers, partners, and supporters who believe in the power of civic learning.
Together, we are not only celebrating student achievement today — we are creating pathways for young people to stay engaged, connected, and involved in their communities long after the Invitational ends.
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Support Civic Education in Nevada
High-quality civic education does not happen by chance. It requires sustained investment in teachers, students, and learning opportunities across the state.
Your support helps ensure that students from every region of Nevada — including rural and under-resourced communities — have access to meaningful civic learning experiences like We the People.
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Expanding Opportunities Through Service & Volunteering
In partnership with Youth Service America
Civic learning comes alive when young people are connected to real opportunities to serve, lead, and contribute to their communities.
Through a new partnership with Youth Service America, the Nevada Center for Civic Engagement is expanding opportunities for youth to engage in service-learning, volunteering, and community-based action — helping young people build purpose, belonging, and civic connection through meaningful service
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Honoring Youth & Educators as America Approaches 250
In partnership with Nevada’s America 250 Commission
As we approach the nation’s 250th anniversary, Nevada is lifting up the young people and educators who are shaping the future of our democracy.
Through America 250 Youth and Teacher Awards, we celebrate civic leadership, service, and learning that strengthen communities and prepare the next generation for active participation in our democracy.
