BY KARISSA MILLER

Iredell-Statesville Schools observed Constitution Day on Wednesday with many community members presenting or assisting teachers in activities to deepen students’ understanding of the U.S. Constitution.

At East Iredell Middle School, school board member Mike Kubiniec, who was dressed in a tricorn hat, powdered wig and colonial clothing, coordinated an in-class exercise of a mock Constitutional Convention in several eighth-grade history classes.

“James Madison here. He is known as the father of the Constitution. He wrote down in his journal everything that took place at the convention,” Kubiniec, who served as narrator, told the students.

For around 50 minutes, students were assigned roles to represent different delegates from the various states. They all read from a script while a student playing the role of Gen. George Washington, president of the convention, served as the chairman of the debate and discussion about the proposed Constitution.

Jonathan Lopez-Flores, 14, who read the parts of Washington and Alexander Hamilton, found it interesting to learn about how the Constitution was formed.

“The Constitution is a founding document for our country. I was surprised that there was so much disagreement and conflict between the states,” he said.

Lopez-Flores admitted that he was a little nervous that he had two reading parts, but said that he eventually became comfortable and created distinct voices for each delegate.

“I personally thought it was fun. I think that everyone tried their best and we all enjoyed our time today,” he said.

Students debated and resolved key issues, such as, the three-fifths compromise. They also learned about the three branches of government and were introduced to the Preamble. At the end of the convention, the delegates were invited to sign the Constitution.

“It gives students a way to see its historic and experience it in real life, showing events it as it really happened,” teacher Niklaus Beecher said.

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