Judges in the Classroom Brings Civic Learning to Kern Students

Excitement filled the air at Patriot Elementary School as third graders eagerly filed into the multipurpose room, ready to hear from Kern County Superior Court Judge Michael A. Caves about the judicial system and what it means to serve as a judge.

The visit marked Judge Caves’s second trip to the campus through Judges in the Classroom, part of the statewide Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative.

Through the program, students learn firsthand how the judicial system works and why civic understanding matters. It’s designed to make civic education accessible to every school by bringing local judges to campus — giving students who can’t travel to a courthouse the opportunity to experience the judicial process up close.

During the presentation, Judge Caves introduced students to key concepts of justice, explaining the difference between rules and laws and how both help people live safely and fairly. He presented hypothetical cases to challenge their critical thinking and clarify common misconceptions about a judge’s role.

In one scenario, students discussed whether a new law banning dogs from schools would apply if a student brought a stuffed animal to class. Several were invited to don the judge’s robe and make rulings of their own — sparking laughter, thoughtful debate, and plenty of curiosity.

“It is hard to make decisions sometimes, especially as a judge,” reflected third grader Lena after participating in the activity.

Lena and her classmates said they were surprised to learn how long most cases can take — often two to three months — as well as the role of juries and the responsibilities judges carry.

Kristin Davis, Public Affairs Officer for the Kern County Superior Court, emphasized the importance of exposing young students to civic leaders early on.

“If you can see it, you can be it,” Davis said.

It’s a message Judge Caves connects with personally.

“It sounds weird, but I couldn’t even envision myself going to law school because I didn’t know what that profession looked like — or anyone in the profession,” he said. “So, I think outreach like this is really important.”

As the event wrapped up, Judge Caves presented each third-grade teacher with a challenge coin, explaining its meaning from his military service and leaving the room filled with smiles.

Second-grade teacher Mindi Bandoli said the impact was immediately visible.

“The kids just felt so important and special,” Bandoli said. “He brought it down perfectly to a seven- or eight-year-old level.”

Judge Caves answers questions from students at Patriot Elementary.

Something for All Ages

While the curriculum at Patriot Elementary was tailored for younger students, the program provides learning opportunities for all ages.

At Liberty High School, what began as a simple idea evolved into witnessing a live criminal trial.

Teacher Brooke Richter had been searching for interactive experiences for her We the People students when she discovered the opportunity.

 “I filled out a Google Form explaining the age of my students and that we were primarily looking to see the court system in action,” Richter said.

The experience tied directly into Richter’s unit on individual rights, where students spend several days studying the criminal court system. Seeing the process unfold in person allowed them to connect classroom lessons — like the Fourth and Fifth Amendments — to real courtroom proceedings. Watching both sides deliver closing arguments gave them a hands-on perspective that far surpassed what they might see on television.

“I’ve always been interested in going into the legal field,” said Ella, a Liberty High senior. “But stepping into the courtroom and actually watching a trial was incredible. It really solidified what I’m passionate about.”

Richter encouraged other educators to take advantage of similar experiences.

“If teachers have the time to make this trip happen, they should absolutely do it,” she said. “This program gives students a real-world basis for civics knowledge that you just can’t accomplish in a 58-minute class period.”

Both Judge Caves and Davis emphasized that classroom visits are never a burden.

“It’s a highlight of our day,” Davis added. “Please submit your requests — we’d love to arrange a visit.”

Educators can sign up HERE.

Social Studies Teacher and We The People Coach Brooke Richter leads a lesson at Liberty High School.