Students from Franklin’s Academy spent the morning inside the courthouse, getting a firsthand look at the justice system in action

From observing live court proceedings to exploring the jury room, students experienced how the courts operate beyond what they see in textbooks. A highlight of the visit was the “Clothing Closet,” where they met Marie Alvarez Ortiz and learned how the donation-based boutique helps families and youth involved in the court system access professional attire for job interviews, community service, and special occasions.

The students also had the opportunity to meet Judge Elijah H. Williams, who explained how juvenile court works, and Judge Lorena V. Mastrarrigo, who shared her journey to the bench. She even invited students to sit in the jury box, take the witness stand, and try on a judge’s robe, giving them a memorable glimpse into life in the courtroom.

The visit wrapped up with Assistant Public Defender Ana Roditi, who discussed the vital role public defenders play in ensuring access to justice for all. Hands on learning is the best! #17thJudTeam

Participate in a mock trial, play a math game, discover why perception matters, try on a judge’s robe, bang the gavel, listen to testimony, take photos from the bench, wear a bailiff’s jacket.
Those are just a few things that students from Oriole Elementary in Lauderdale Lakes experienced during a courthouse tour this week. They also met Chief Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips and Judge Kenneth R. Gillespie and Community Outreach Coordinator Janelle Floyd from the Broward Public Defender’s Office.
The 3rd, 4th and 5th graders are participants in the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project mentoring program.
Hands-on learning is the best! #17thjudteam