High school students from Anne Arundel County will attend a court session on April 9 as part of the Schools in the Court program. This initiative aims to educate teens about the repercussions of poor decision-making, particularly around prom season.
The event will take place at the District Court of Maryland in Anne Arundel County. During their visit, students will observe real criminal proceedings and learn about legal and financial consequences associated with offenses such as drunk driving. They will also hear from individuals who have faced significant impacts due to bad choices.
Judge Shaem C.P. Spencer, who leads the program, stated: "Students will see defendants who are not much older than they are. 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 affect their lives."
Participants include students from Arundel and North County high schools, Phoenix Academy, and The Harbour School. The Schools in the Court program is held twice annually by the Anne Arundel County District Court.
The event is supported by a grant from the Anne Arundel County Partnership for Children, Youth and Families, which covers student transportation costs.