About the Program

To instill in students a desire to become lifelong learners through reading, James Parkinson, a Coachella Valley attorney, and Douglas P. Miller, an Associate Justice in the Fourth District Court of Appeal, Division Two, have developed a 75-minute presentation especially geared toward high school students. Mr. Parkinson is also the co-author of the book Soldier Slaves: Abandoned by the White House, Courts and Congress. In their presentations the two show their innate ability to connect with students. Students leave the room feeling like they have come away with a new sense of their country’s history and how it affects them today.

Following are some quotes from participating educators and students:

”After talking to my students…I realize they not only were able to see government in action…but they were also motivated to learn on their own. As one student put it…’I learned that it really pays off to be smart!’ I recommend Mr. Parkinson’s program to any high school social studies teacher.” – Beth Higginbotham – Jordan High School, Sandy, Utah

”…I think I want to someday have the chance to teach little children how to read so I can share with them the key to knowing everything! Because of his inspiration, I want to inspire!” Mikenzie Reeder, Jordan High School, Sandy, Utah.

”The lecture on literacy was my favorite part, it made me want to be smart and do what it takes to be smart…read!” Erica Stenovik, student, Jordan High School, Sandy, Utah.

”Thank you ever so much for spending two days of your time to speak to some of the classes at Coachella Valley High School. It was truly a treat to watch you interact so effectively with a diverse group of students. Your emphasis of both history and literacy, combined with visuals, fresh donuts and a wonderful sense of humor are appreciated and welcome anytime you would like to return.” Jenny Braithwaite, Social Studies Department Chairman, Coachella Valley High School

…I would like to extend the most heartfelt thanks for the presentations you made to our students and faculty. We would like to work with you again next year on the same program. The message you bring to our students inspires hope and direction for our students.” Manuel Arredondo, Principal, Coachella Valley High School.

How to Schedule a Program

Schools wishing to have a Literacy 21 presentation OR an Autodidactic's presentation in their school should contact Justice Miller’s Office at 1-951-248-0325

There is no charge for his presentation.

How the Program Works

The program lasts 75 minutes and at the conclusion of the program each student is presented with a signed copy of the book for them to keep as part of their personal library. For many of the over 5000 students who have heard Jim’s presentation it is the first book they ever owned!

Mr. Parkinson is fluent in Spanish and relates well with ESL students.

The cost of the books are underwritten by various local organizations. In the Coachella Valley, Youth Town Hall provides for the books. Youth Town Hall is a program of Desert Forum, Inc. a nonprofit corporation – 501 (c)(3). Desert Forum also produces the stellar speaker series Desert Town Hall – Indian Wells.

Web sites: www.youthtownhall.org
www.deserttownhall.org