Grand Forks County is working with Schroeder Middle School to enhance civics education and organize career day events. Judges and staff have been presenting to eighth-grade History and North Dakota Studies classes about the Constitution and government establishment. These presentations occur quarterly.
In December 2024, Presiding Judge Don Hager from the Northeast Central Judicial District and Kelly Hutton, Unit 1 Court Administrator, delivered a presentation. In February 2025, Judge Don Hager returned with Alison Braaten, Grand Forks Clerk of Court, to present again. Their topics included an overview of the North Dakota Court System's history, its role as the third branch of government, structure details of the judicial system in North Dakota including eight judicial districts, differences between District Courts and the Supreme Court, distinctions between criminal and civil cases, students’ rights and responsibilities, as well as career opportunities within the judicial system.
A short activity was also conducted in class that involved jury panel participation similar to Mad Libs which engaged students effectively. The students posed numerous questions which court personnel were pleased to answer while participating in civics education within the school community.
Looking ahead to April, judicial partners in Grand Forks County will host a career day for Schroeder Middle School students who have shown interest in law enforcement or judicial careers. During this event, students will engage with judges and court staff from various departments such as juvenile court and clerk’s office along with law enforcement/probation officers and attorneys through round table discussions. Each group will spend approximately 15 minutes sharing insights about their professions while answering any student inquiries.
"We look forward to working with our local judicial partners," stated a representative from Grand Forks County regarding these educational initiatives aimed at middle schoolers.