Fall 2026 Education Law Clerkship

National Center for Youth Law

NCYL is a national nonprofit that puts children and youth— especially those pushed to society’s margins — at the center of every fight for justice. For more than 50 years, we have partnered with young people, families, and communities in efforts to dismantle racism, discrimination, and inequity wherever they appear. We recognize that harmful policies don’t affect children and youth in isolation. Each young person’s well-being depends on their family’s stability, their community’s resources, and the opportunities they can access. By working across all systems that shape young people’s lives in a rapidly evolving society, we advance solutions that are holistic, intersectional, and transformative.

Position

NCYL seeks one (1) law student to support and learn from its Education Team during the fall of 2026. This is a volunteer position and will be remote. NCYL is willing to work with law schools to facilitate course credit.

Essential Functions

• Support initiatives to protect access to public education and enforce education civil rights, including through the work of the Education Civil Rights Alliance and NCYL’s Education Defense Fund
• Support the implementation phase of a project that will share model legislation and policies for states to improve enforcement of civil rights for students

Qualifications

• Second-(2L) or third-(3L) year law student as of fall 2026
• Ability to commit 15 hours per week for a minimum of 10 weeks between September and November 2026
• Demonstrated commitment to civil rights and/or education justice
• Knowledge of, understanding of, and commitment to NCYL’s mission
• Experience and/or interest in current issues impacting children and youth
• Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Cultural competency working with clients and colleagues from diverse backgrounds
• Excellent research and writing skills
• Excellent communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and complete multiple projects

How To Apply

Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled or until July 17, 2026. Priority will be given to applications received by July 3.

Applicants must submit the following:

• Resume (not including GPA)
• Cover letter describing your particular interest in working for NCYL (including any specific issue areas of interest) and understanding of NCYL’s mission
• Writing sample (5-7 pages) that demonstrates analytical skills
• Two (2) professional or academic references

We welcome applications from individuals with different ideas, experiences, and perspectives. Applicants who meet the above criteria with lived experiences within any of our practice areas are strongly encouraged to apply.