More Schools Can Visit Supreme Court With Expansion of Transportation Grants
Students learn about importance of state courts through interactive displays and building tour
Students engage with an exhibit in the Visitor Education Center.
Ohio schools can now submit applications for transportation grants to help offset travel costs for student field trips to the Thomas J. Moyer Ohio Judicial Center. To make it easier for students across Ohio to learn beyond the classroom, the Supreme Court of Ohio has increased funding this year to support visits from 25% more schools. It’s an opportunity for schools to expand student access to hands-on civic learning experiences.
While visiting the Moyer Judicial Center, students will learn about the state’s judicial branch, the appellate process, and how Supreme Court decisions affect the laws and citizens of Ohio. The Visitor Education Center’s interactive exhibits illustrate cases that have impacted young people and families. A highlight for many students during their visits is the opportunity to participate in a mock trial.
Each tour of the Moyer Judicial Center also explores Ohio history through the building’s architecture and artwork. The Native American Lobby, Grand Concourse, and the Courtroom are just a few examples of the places students will visit on the tour. Taken together, students will learn a range of interdisciplinary concepts, including civics, history, art, and literature.
Tours are free. Now through Oct. 9, teachers and administrators can apply online for a transportation grant for visits through June 2027. To apply, fill out the short, online application form on the Supreme Court website.
Grants are available to grades 4-12 for all Ohio schools that receive state funding. If applications exceed the number of grants allocated, preference will be given to schools that didn’t receive a grant the previous school year and to schools with higher free and reduced lunch student populations. Grant funds range from $200-$500, based on the distance from the school to the Moyer Judicial Center.
Since the grant program began in 2011, hundreds of field trips have been funded, impacting tens of thousands of students and giving them the chance to visit the Supreme Court. This school year, the Court expects roughly 10,000 students to visit the building.
Any school is welcome to schedule a tour, regardless of grant status, by contacting CourtTours@sc.ohio.gov or by calling 614-387-9223.