Both groups learned from one another, which is the most appropriate outcome for this type of initiative. Gladstone school, opened in 1884, has a long-standing tradition of serving the children of the near west side of Chicago. In 2000, Gladstone became a Fine Arts Cluster Magnet School, with an emphasis on drama. CRFC has been matching attorney volunteers with classrooms for almost 20 years. Attorneys from large firms, in private practice, and the public sector work with students in 4-8th grades in Chicago Public Schools and the Western suburbs.
Attorneys form teams to work with one teacher.
The team is coordinated by the attorney team leader, with support from CRFC, who acts as liaison between the teacher and team members to schedule visits and plan activities. During the visits attorneys participate in lessons that link the study of the Constitution, the branches of government, conflict resolution, and service learning to issues that relate to students' lives and improve their critical thinking skills. Teachers and attorneys decide together how best to utilize the attorneys' expertise based on the lessons being taught and time constraints.