District Attorney's Justice Academy

About the Program

Category: Children and Youth (Best in Category)

Year: 2013

The District Attorney's Justice Academy offers a learning and working experience to public high school students in Alameda County, California, ages 16 to 18 who are interested in pursuing the study of law and social justice. Selected after an application process, the diverse group is comprised of motivated, intellectually curious, and excellent students. During the Academy, legal experts present engaging and thought-provoking seminars that allow the students to question, interact and problem-solve. Additionally, the cohort stays engaged in an active dialogue via an on-line forum. When summer vacation begins, each student is placed in a paid internship with a local government or non-profit agency, or a private law office. At the conclusion of the program, the students present a persuasive oral argument on a topic of their choosing.This innovative Academy teaches teens about all facets of the justice system while encouraging critical thought and civic engagement.