First Lady Jessica Doyle Joins Lawyers for Learning Initiative
State Bar joins forces with Public Defender's office for classroom presentation

March 9, 2004

As part of the Lawyers for Learning initiative, First Lady Jessica Doyle, State Bar President elect Michelle Behnke, and Law-Related Education Committee co-chair Mike Tobin spoke to more than 75 fourth and fifth graders at Marquette Elementary School in Madison on March 9. During the hour-long presentation, the speakers illustrated the importance of laws, what happens when laws are challenged, and how the 50-year-old Brown v. Board of Education case played a central role in the nation's race relations.

"The Brown case is an excellent topic for students because it teaches them about law, about history, and most importantly, about mutual respect and cooperation among people of different races and cultures," said Tobin. "The Marquette teachers and students helped greatly with the presentation, and the audience had excellent questions. I am grateful to the Marquette community, the State Bar, and First Lady Jessica Doyle for making the program a success."

"I enjoyed being a part of the Lawyers for Learning program," said Behnke. "The student presenters were well prepared and gave great presentations. The students in the audience asked really thoughtful questions about segregation and equal education issues. It is exciting to be a part of the learning process for these young students. I hope I have a chance to work with other schools on this project."

"The Lawyers for Learning program began last year but has now taken on a new significance because of the focus on a case that drastically changed our public education 50 years ago," said Tobin. The 50th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education, the national May 1 Law Day theme, has prompted bar associations and educational groups nationwide to develop programs, curriculum, and classroom activities recognizing the importance of integrated schools and a diverse student population.

"Not only does this program emphasize the importance of diversity in our schools, it promotes a continued sense of tolerance and respect," said Behnke. "What could be more important than to educate our youth about treating each other fairly and equally."

Lawyers for Learning is part of an ongoing effort at the State Bar to educate the public about the value of lawyers and to showcase the important contributions that lawyers make every day in their communities. For more information about the program and to view presentation materials, visit LegalExplorer.

The State Bar of Wisconsin is the mandatory professional association, created by the Wisconsin Supreme Court, for attorneys who hold a law license in Wisconsin. With more than 20,000 members, the State Bar aids the courts in improving the administration of justice, provides continuing legal education for its members to help them maintain their expertise, and assists Wisconsin lawyers in carrying out community service initiatives to educate the public about the legal system and the value of lawyers.