Media Advisory:
  Judges Help Bring Civics to Charles County High School Students

(WALDORF, Md. – Nov. 24, 2014), On Tuesday, December 2, judges from Maryland’s courts will join in an effort to help students learn about law and society. During the Civics and Law Academy that day, Charles County high school students will join with judges and other legal professionals to discuss a variety of topics, including juvenile rights, criminal law, free speech, and the law in the technology age. The media are invited to attend.

The December 2 session of the Civics and Law Academy will be held at Thomas Stone High School in Waldorf, and will include approximately 120 students. Chief Judge John P. Morrissey of the District Court of Maryland will be the plenary speaker for the event.

“The students raise interesting points and ask great questions because we discuss issues that they deal with every day,” said Judge Pamila J. Brown, who sits on the District Court in Howard County. The program is held in partnership with the Maryland State Bar Association, the Citizenship and Law-Related Education Program, and the American Bar Association. Charles County Public Schools and the Charles County Bar Association are partners in the December 2 program.

“Students need to have an understanding of law and legal issues if they want to function in society,” Judge Brown said. “The 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 is designed to help high school students gain a better understanding of the law, which helps them develop civic competency. Academy sessions are held during the school year at various locations in Maryland.

WHAT:
Civics and Law Academy for Charles County high school students
A partnership of the Maryland Judiciary, Maryland State Bar Association, Citizenship and Law-Related Education Program (CLREP), Charles County Bar Association, and Charles County Public Schools

WHO:
Judge Pamila J. Brown, Chair, Maryland Judiciary Public Awareness Committee

WHEN:
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
9 a.m.-12:45 p.m.

WHERE:
Thomas Stone High School
3785 Leonardtown Road
Waldorf, MD 20601

MEDIA CONTACT:
The media are invited to attend. Call the Office of Communications and Public Affairs, 410-260-1488, to attend and to discuss the use of cameras and/or electronic devices.

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