Fourth- and fifth-grade students from Pine Lakes Elementary in Pembroke Pines had a blast during their courthouse visit – meeting judges, peeking inside courtrooms, visiting a jury room, and riding plenty of elevators in both the West Tower and North Wing.
The students met County Court Judge Jackie Powell and Circuit Court Judge Thomas J. Coleman, peppering them with questions about what it takes to become a lawyer, the kinds of cases they’ve handled, and whether they enjoy their jobs.
They also met Janelle Floyd, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Broward Public Defender’s Office, who turned learning into a game by quizzing students for candy prizes in what quickly became a fierce competition.
The students, who participate in the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project, had a fun and memorable day – learning about the justice system and the many careers within it.