ResourcesTEENS HOLD COURT AT APS
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NEWS RELEASE # 70
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 6, 2009
WHAT: Classroom Turns Into Courtroom at Columbia Middle School
WHEN: April 8, 1:45 p.m.
WHERE: Columbia Middle School, 17600 East Columbia Avenue 80013
TEENS HOLD COURT AT APS
Students at Columbia Middle School are turning a classroom into a courtroom on a regular basis. It’s part of a new option for handling infractions of school rules. For students who violate school rules, it’s an opportunity at a second chance. For their peers, it’s a front row seat to an important life lesson that every parent hopes to teach their child: accountability.
This year, APS partnered with the Aurora Police Department to launch a referral program known around the country as Teen Court. All courtroom positions are filled by students. Under the watchful eye of a teacher, students hold mock court to determine fair punishment in cases involving a violation of school rules.
APS and APD invite the media to Teen Court on April 8 for an inside look at an actual court case. Columbia Middle School is located at 17600 East Columbia Avenue. Please arrive by 1:45 p.m. to allow for time to check-in and set-up. A number of key players will be available to members of the media to respond to questions and explain the positive impact this program is having in the school. Those who will be available for interviews include:
- Teen Court student participants (prosecutor, bailiff, defendant, jurors)
- Columbia Middle School teacher / Teen Court coordinator
- Columbia Middle School principal
- Police Officer Liaison
One goal of the program is to give students a second chance by avoiding a more serious penalty, but at the same time, hold them accountable. Admitting responsibility is an important component of the process. The program is voluntary, but the terms of the sentence handed down by the jury are not. Instead of losing a day or more of instruction or in lieu of a municipal summons for a minor offense, the jury will instruct the offending student to perform community service, write an apology letter, spend time studying in detention, or another appropriate form of correction designed to motivate the student to follow the rules.
Examples of offenses that have been addressed by Teen Court include bullying, harassment (pushing) and minor property damage.
Teen Court is an optional class for students who are interested in being leaders and making a difference in their school. Students learn about the court process, legal matters, public speaking, and argument and debate. Students use the elective class to prepare for cases and hold court.
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Interested media may contact APS News Media Specialist
Paula Hans at 303-326-2755 for more information
APS Communication Department
Georgia Durán, Chief Communication Officer
303-365-7805
FAX: 303-326-1939
e-mail: grduran@aps.k12.co.us
http://www.aps.k12.co.us/communications
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