Judges from Maryland's courts will engage with Allegany County high school students in a Civics and Law Academy on November 15. The event aims to educate students about law and society through discussions on topics such as juvenile rights, criminal law, free speech, and the impact of technology on the law.
The session will take place at Allegany High School in Cumberland and involve approximately 60 students from local schools including Allegany, Bishop Walsh, Fort Hill, and Mountain Ridge high schools. Judge Pamila J. Brown emphasized the importance of civics education by stating, “You can’t hope to function in our society, which is based on the rule of law, if you don’t learn civics.” She leads the Judiciary committee that organizes this program in collaboration with several legal associations.
Judge Brown further noted the significance of involving students in legal discussions: “Students are active members of our society and therefore need to have an understanding of law and legal issues.” The Civics and Law Academy is designed to enhance civic competency among high school students across Maryland through various sessions held during the academic year.
The initiative is supported by partnerships with the Maryland State Bar Association, Citizenship and Law-Related Education Program (CLREP), Allegany Public Schools, and the Allegany County Bar Association. Media representatives interested in covering the event are encouraged to contact the Office of Communications and Public Affairs for further details.