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Law and Public Service Learning Center Students Learn about Juvenile Justice System
Students in the Law and Public Service Learning Center at Colts Neck High School learned about the intricacies of the juvenile justice system from an expert. Laurie B. Gerhardt, the Director of the Family Division of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, spoke with the group on January 9th.
Ms. Gerhardt described the differences between adult criminal prosecutions and the juvenile system, including terminology and the penalties juveniles face. She also discussed the factors that must be considered when a juvenile case is being reviewed for a possible waiver to the adult court system.
Presenting cases which have been popular in the media recently, Ms. Gerhardt engaged the students by asking them to weigh in on the proceedings. Would they try the individuals as adults or would they allow them to remain in the juvenile system? The group had some varying opinions, but the students had well thought out reasons for their beliefs.
The Freehold Regional High School District’s Center for Law and Public Service is a rigorous program geared toward highly motivated students with demonstrated interests and abilities in history, politics, government, law, volunteerism and leadership. Skills targeted for development include: problem solving, critical thinking, reading, and writing, oral communication, research, and organization. The values of citizenship, justice, and service serve as the foundation for academic study. Students study history as it relates to the development of the United States and the evolution of world societies and governments. Students will explore political thought, ethical philosophy, and leadership theory. Special attention is given to New Jersey history and civic affairs. Skills and knowledge are enhanced by active experiences in volunteerism and public service on the school, local, state and national levels. Career opportunities are explored during externships in government offices, volunteer agencies and law-related institutions.
Ms. Gerhardt described the differences between adult criminal prosecutions and the juvenile system, including terminology and the penalties juveniles face. She also discussed the factors that must be considered when a juvenile case is being reviewed for a possible waiver to the adult court system.
Presenting cases which have been popular in the media recently, Ms. Gerhardt engaged the students by asking them to weigh in on the proceedings. Would they try the individuals as adults or would they allow them to remain in the juvenile system? The group had some varying opinions, but the students had well thought out reasons for their beliefs.
The Freehold Regional High School District’s Center for Law and Public Service is a rigorous program geared toward highly motivated students with demonstrated interests and abilities in history, politics, government, law, volunteerism and leadership. Skills targeted for development include: problem solving, critical thinking, reading, and writing, oral communication, research, and organization. The values of citizenship, justice, and service serve as the foundation for academic study. Students study history as it relates to the development of the United States and the evolution of world societies and governments. Students will explore political thought, ethical philosophy, and leadership theory. Special attention is given to New Jersey history and civic affairs. Skills and knowledge are enhanced by active experiences in volunteerism and public service on the school, local, state and national levels. Career opportunities are explored during externships in government offices, volunteer agencies and law-related institutions.