Who is the Northern Justice Project?

Northern Justice Project (NJP) is providing attorney services to Ben Kolendo and Quinlen Schachle in their lawsuit against the Matanuska Susitna Borough School District (MSBSD). They are also listed alongside the ACLU in another lawsuit filed against the school district earlier in November, as they represent several families and students suing over the removal of 56 books from school libraries across the district.

The first question that comes to mind is what is the NJP?

Founded in 2005, the Northern Justice Project, LLC is a private civil rights and special education firm that focuses on representing Alaskans in complex lawsuits against the State and Federal Governments and large corporations.

Their website states:

“We have a proven track record of significant victories for our clients. From Medicaid, to Native American rights, to Special Education access, to tenants' rights and more, we have successfully won many cases that have made an incredible difference for people living in our communities.”

When asked why the NJP decided to take on this lawsuit, and to do it pro bono, Attorney Savannah Fletcher, who is representing the students said that what the MSBSD has done is a disservice to not just the plaintiffs, but all students.

“What’s happening here, is happening in other districts. It is the purpose of the Northern Justice Project to defend civil rights, and that includes students.”

Fletcher said that she heard what was happening, read the news and feels it is a great injustice.

“I was happy to jump in.”

She is inspired by what Kolendo and Schachle are trying to do by trying to be a voice and raise the voice of students across the district.

“These kids are spirited, brave students who continue to advocate for the rights of students. While there are some seniors who can vote, K-12 students only have one way to advocate, one voice that speaks for them. That is being taken away. It is a repeat pattern of encouraging participation, only to be later told that they can’t talk about political activity at school.”

Fletcher says that the district has not been formally served with the lawsuit, but that when they do, the district has 21 days to file a reply. She anticipates continued filings but is hopeful that this lawsuit will be in front of a judge next semester.

Kolendo said he has been pleased so far with the team at NJP, saying:

“We are confident in our team. They have been wonderful to work with.” Likewise, Fletcher has been impressed with her clients.

“They are leading, living by example, not just talking.”

For more information about the Northern Justice Project, visit www.njp-law.com