The Minnesota Court of Appeals is set to conduct oral arguments at Waseca High School on Tuesday, November 21, at 10 a.m. This initiative follows the example set by the Minnesota Supreme Court and aims to provide an educational experience for students.
"We are excited to be in Waseca and to engage in this educational opportunity," stated Chief Judge Susan Segal of the Court of Appeals. She emphasized that while the court has previously invited teachers and students into its St. Paul courtrooms, holding proceedings at a high school offers an expanded learning opportunity.
This event marks the first time the Court of Appeals will hold oral arguments in a high school setting, although it regularly travels to district courts across Minnesota. The program's goal is similar to that of the Supreme Court’s outreach—to educate students about the judicial system—but with some differences. Notably, Court of Appeals cases involve three-judge panels instead of seven justices. Additionally, Judge Renee Worke, a Waseca High School alumna and current member of the Court of Appeals, will guide students through the process as a judicial spokesperson.
Students will participate actively in various roles such as hosts for judges, stage crew members, ushers, and broadcast assistants. Some selected students will also have breakfast with judges before the proceedings begin.
In preparation for this event, social studies and government teachers are helping students understand case backgrounds and legal briefs. This preparation aims to enhance their comprehension during attorney presentations.
“Exposing students to how we do our work is an important component in building and maintaining public trust in our state court system,” Segal remarked. She expressed hope that some students might be inspired to pursue careers in law or consider becoming future judges.
After oral arguments conclude, there will be a question-and-answer session where students can engage directly with judges about the judicial process—a feature popularized by similar Supreme Court events.
“The judges will be ready to answer whatever questions the students have for them—and we know those questions will be thoughtful, insightful, and tough,” Segal added. “Students are eager to learn about the court system and we’re eager to share our experiences.”
The event will be available via livestream on the Court of Appeals webpage where additional information can also be accessed.