FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. — Flagler County Schools' new Law and Justice Program is now in full swing, which aims to bring students to the legal field.
- Law & Justice program aims to educate students on legal field
- 43 students part of Matanzas High's flagship program
- Flagler Co. Sheriff's Office helped with curriculum
In a classroom full of students sat future lawyers, forensic examiners, judges and officers in the making.
"I think it feels pretty awesome, because it’s opening up doors," said student Chelesse Graham.
Graham and Evan Davis are 9th graders.
They are among the 43 students who are now a part of Matanzas High School's flagship student-generated Law and Justice program.
Both students talked about what inspired them to join the program.
"I've known since pretty much 5th grade -- I've watched law and order and CSI and it got me interested in it," said Graham.
"I've wanted to become a law enforcement officer, mainly because of my mom; she's a big influence in my life," said Davis.
From case files, to debates, to skits -- the students said they are learning it all.
"We've picked up like what is a crime, explained what the different types of crime are," said Davis.
The high school partnered with the Flagler County Sheriff's Office, who helped come up with the curriculum.
"They risk their lives for other people, and I think that its pretty cool that they would do something like that, and I would like to definitely take an opportunity to do something like that for someone else," said Davis.
The principal said not only does the program give the students real-life experience, but they will also be able to get college credit, certifications, mentoring from those in the legal field.
He said in about two weeks they'll be bringing a courtroom to the campus.
"It exposes them to opportunity. Our students are getting real-world application to do the job, and we're excited about that," said Principal Jeff Reaves.
Students said the program could also keep them on the right track.
"It could make them not scared, but (they) know what's going to happen if they try to do something against the law," said Graham.
The students believe this program makes all of their futures look bright.
"Maybe they're scared to get involved in it, so we're putting a message out there that you can do it, and it's not scary," said Graham.
Throughout the school year, guest speakers will provide firsthand accounts and their experiences on law enforcement operations to the students, including members from FCSO’s Victim Advocate Unit, SWAT, K9, and more.