In this course, students will teach classes in a community setting for individuals experiencing homelessness many of whom identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community (Ali Forney Center and/or Streetworks). After receiving training in public legal education methodology, students will visit the community settings to determine the most common legal needs of community members. Students will then research those topics and construct interactive lessons discussing those legal concepts. The lessons will focus on legal life skills, and the most relevant legal issues for the community and will likely include interactions with police, employment issues, public benefits, and housing. These lessons will discuss legal topics generally and not individual legal issues of community members.

Students will teach five 90-minute lessons during the semester. The seminar meets once per week. The seminar will focus on methodology early in the semester and will then shift to research and lesson development as well as regular debrief sessions. Students will submit reflective journals after each class they teach and will submit a final portfolio containing all lessons developed over the semester and final reflections.

Approved for the Experiential Learning Requirement. Enrollment is limited. Registration is binding. Application and interview are required, and the application can be found in Student Resources on the NYLS Portal.

Recommended for the following Professional Pathways: Civil Rights/Civil Liberties; Government/Public Sector

2 Credits