Wisconsin Civics Games, created by Wisconsin Newspaper Association Foundation, engage students to be citizens

Students face off at the first Wisconsin Civics Games.
(Photo from Wisconsin Newspaper Association)

The Wisconsin Civics Games guide tells why the exercise exists: "Prior to the 1960s, three courses in civics and government were common in American high schools and encouraged students to explore the role of citizens and discuss current issues. Today, such courses are rare. In 2017, three in five Wisconsin municipalities reported an average of 1 or fewer candidates for each village board or city council seat. A lack of knowledge in civic affairs makes individuals less likely to be active, engaged citizens. It's a result that has been felt by municipalities across Wisconsin."

In response to these knowledge gaps, the Wisconsin Newspaper Association Foundation created the games in 2019, and more than 100 students from 25 schools participated. During the games, students heard from several local officials, newspaper editors, state legislators, the state Supreme Court chief justice and the governor. They even received a congratulatory letter from U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. After all the preparation and two days of competition, the team from Platteville High School was named the first-ever Wisconsin Civics Games champion. Each member of the team was awarded a $2,000 scholarship to a Wisconsin college or university. 

After a pandemic hiatus, the Games are back for 2023, and follow the same format and scholarship offering for the winning team. The Games format can be reproduced by other communities that would like to engage young adults in interactive civics. 

WNAF's program contains the Civics Games Guide, with structure and rules; a website; sample registration for student teams; and a booklet for students to study: The Framework of Your Wisconsin Government.

The set-up is similar to a Scholastic Bowl or College Bowl, with timed questions and a buzzer.

Sample question: City and village governments in Wisconsin have been given wide-ranging powers to deal with providing services. A 1924 constitutional amendment granted them authority known as "home rule." What is "home rule" and what are these locally enacted laws called?
Answer:   Home rule is when a city or village may do things the way it wants unless the state constitution prohibits it - or if it is something of statewide concern that the legislature should handle. These locally enacted laws are called ordinances.

The games have volunteer and sponsorship opportunities for teachers, parents, community members and local businesses.