Almost 150 high school students from Anne Arundel County will participate in a unique educational experience on April 10. The event is part of the Anne Arundel County District Court's "Schools in the Court" program, which aims to educate students about the judicial system and the repercussions of unlawful behavior.
Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera of Maryland's Court of Appeals will welcome the students. They will observe real criminal cases and learn about legal and financial consequences related to offenses such as drunk driving. Additionally, they will meet with a representative from Maryland’s Shock Trauma Center and members of the Maryland State Police K-9 squad.
Judge Shaem Spencer, who leads the program, emphasized its importance: “Students will see defendants who are not much older than the students themselves. We want them to get an understanding of how the court system works, but we especially want them to understand how making wrong choices about things such as speeding, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, drug use and other crimes can deeply and adversely impact their lives.”
Participants include students from Arundel, Chesapeake, Phoenix high schools, and Harbour School. The program is held twice each school year by Anne Arundel County District Court. Transportation for this event is funded by a grant from the Anne Arundel County Partnership for Children, Youth and Families.