Maryland judges will return to school on Thursday, December 19, as part of a Civics and Law Academy initiative aimed at educating Baltimore high school students about law and society. The event will take place at Patterson High School and involve over 125 students.
During the academy, students from Baltimore City high schools will engage directly with judges and legal professionals to explore topics such as juvenile rights, criminal law, free speech, and the impact of technology on law.
"Students are active members of our society and therefore need to have an understanding of law and legal issues," stated Howard County District Judge Pamila J. Brown. Judge Brown leads the Judiciary committee responsible for organizing the program in collaboration with the Maryland State Bar Association, the Citizenship and Law-Related Education Program, and the American Bar Association. The Bar Association of Baltimore City is also a partner for this session.
"You have to learn civics if you hope to function in our society," Judge Brown added. "The Civics and Law Academy provides a chance for young people to take part in an intensive program to start to gain the knowledge, skills, and values needed to participate fully and effectively in our pluralistic, democratic society."
The Civics and Law Academy aims to enhance high school students' understanding of legal principles while fostering civic competency. Sessions are conducted throughout the academic year at various locations across Maryland.