URGENT UPDATE: Jayden Lundtvedt, a junior at Decorah High School, has been selected as a finalist in the Iowa State Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Division “Know Your Constitution” Project. This prestigious recognition comes as part of an initiative aimed at enhancing students’ understanding of the Constitution.
With over 600 students participating, only 106 finalists were chosen, highlighting the competitive nature of this program. The awards luncheon is set to take place in Des Moines on January 23, where finalists will be honored for their achievements.
From the selected finalists, five students will win scholarship grants through a random drawing, rewarding their hard work and dedication to constitutional knowledge. The “Know Your Constitution” Project challenges students to engage deeply with constitutional issues, requiring them to complete a quiz and an essay.
This year, the essay question focused on the 6th Amendment right to legal counsel, mirroring a recent case before the Iowa Supreme Court and referencing the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision in Gideon v. Wainwright.
“The program not only tests knowledge but also fosters a deeper appreciation for our constitutional rights,” said an ISBA representative.
The Know Your Constitution initiative is sponsored by the Iowa State Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, with funding support from the Iowa State Bar Foundation. The “Best Essay” finalists will be featured on the ISBA website, and an overall winner will be revealed during the awards ceremony.
This recognition not only highlights Jayden Lundtvedt’s academic prowess but also emphasizes the importance of understanding constitutional rights among youth today. As the awards event approaches, anticipation builds for who will take home the scholarships that celebrate their commitment to constitutional learning.
Stay tuned for updates on this exciting event as it draws nearer, and celebrate the achievements of young scholars like Jayden who are making an impact in their communities.
