On April 30, 2025, a group of seventeen eighth-grade students and teachers from Schroeder Middle School attended an event at the Grand Forks County Courthouse to gain insight into the court system and explore career opportunities within the criminal justice field. The event, titled “Rapid Roundtable – Justice in Motion,” provided the students the opportunity to observe a criminal court session and interact with various courthouse personnel.
The visit was structured by dividing the students and teachers into four smaller groups, allowing them to engage with personnel from different sectors of the legal field. Each group spent about ten minutes with employees from areas such as the judiciary, prosecuting and defense attorneys, law enforcement, juvenile court staff, court clerks, staff attorneys, and court administration.
Feedback from the school was positive. "Today was amazing. I can't believe how many people dedicated time for the kids. It really was remarkable. I have no doubt that this is something that the kids will remember for a long time," the school shared.
During the day, students interacted with law enforcement to discuss their community role in law enforcement enforcement. They also observed hearings presided over by Judge Don Hager, and Judges Theodore Sandberg and Jay Knudson were available to answer students' questions. Additionally, conversations with attorneys provided students with a deeper understanding of the legal profession's contributions to the justice system. Visits with juvenile court staff shed light on the functions and responsibilities of juvenile court in the legal system.
Overall, the event was a comprehensive educational experience for the students from Schroeder Middle School, offering them a glance into the workings of the court system and the various professions involved in criminal justice.