Nova Middle Pre-Law students win fourth straight national civic education title

Broward County, Florida – Nova Middle School’s Pre-Law students have turned civic education into a winning tradition, capturing their fourth straight national title in the Center for Civic Education’s “We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution” competition.

The latest victory adds another chapter to a run that has become almost dynasty-like. Year after year, Nova Middle’s students have stepped into one of the country’s most challenging civic education contests and come out on top. This time, their path to the national stage included months of preparation, a long train ride to Washington, D.C., and a performance that once again placed them above the rest.

The competition, held virtually from May 15-16, tested students on their understanding of the U.S. Constitution, government and democratic principles. During simulated congressional hearings, they appeared before panels that included scholars, public officials, judges and other experts. The students were asked to explain, defend and apply what they had learned, showing not only strong knowledge but also confidence under pressure.

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Their trip to Washington added another layer to the experience. While in the nation’s capital, the group visited major landmarks tied to all three branches of government. They toured the White House, the U.S. Capitol and the Supreme Court, connecting classroom lessons to the institutions and landmark decisions they had studied throughout the year.

Behind the team’s continued success is Nova Middle social sciences teacher and coach Kristin Murphy, who works alongside her husband, attorney and coach Will Murphy. Together with two student coaches from nearby Nova High School, they helped prepare the team through drills, practice sessions and steady guidance. Even the 22-hour train ride to Washington became part of the preparation, as students continued sharpening their answers before the competition.

“Our students started working on Nationals last summer,” Kristin Murphy said. “They wanted it and they got it. They got to see that hard work pays off, and that is a lesson that is more valuable than the win.”

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On Monday, May 18, the students learned they had secured the national championship once again. For Nova Middle School, the fourth consecutive win stands as proof of deep commitment, disciplined preparation and a civic education program that continues to set a national standard.