February 7, 2025

Angell Students Experience Justice 101 Program

  Group of students visiting an office, posing for a photo with an adult leader.

Judge Derek Meinecke, a judge for the 44th District Court, spent time with Angell fifth-graders on Monday, February 3. Judge Meinecke visited students at school to discuss aspects of the judicial branch of government, including explaining legal terminology. He was also there to prepare the students for their courthouse visit on Wednesday, February 5. As part of the lessons, Judge Meinecke assigned each student a word and definition to memorize.

At the 44th District Court visit, students observed the Court's misdemeanor probation docket in person. After observing the docket, students visited the new Royal Oak Police Station. Judge Meinecke also made sure to call on each student during court to report on their homework assignment.

This classroom and court visits are part of the Justice 101 program which was started by the local 44th District Court for Royal Oak and Berkley students. The goal of this program is to teach students about the court system and to provide context and understanding for the field trip to the 44th District Court. 5th grade students at Angell, Rogers and Pattengill all participate in this program during the school year.