Have you ever wondered what judges do beyond the courtroom? This month, judges from Bernalillo County went to school libraries, gymnasiums, and cafeterias. They taught students about civics as part of Constitution Day celebrations.
Albuquerque Public Schools, the Second Judicial District Court, and the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court teamed up for the initiative. Pairs of judges visited six local middle schools for two weeks. They met with students to explain complex constitutional principles in simple terms. They also distributed pocket Constitutions as they encouraged learners to explore careers in public service.
On Sept. 17 at Washington Middle School, students got the chance to hear directly from two judges. Chief Metro Court Judge Joshua J. Sánchez and District Court Judge Beatrice Brickhouse gave an inside look at the legal system. At the same time, they answered candid questions from teenagers.
The judges discussed rights and fairness. They also explained their everyday roles and outlined the education and training needed to become a judge. They said you need to graduate from high school and complete four years of college. Then, you must finish three years of law school and pass the state bar exam.
Sánchez took the opportunity to encourage students to start exploring career options early. He said you can look for internships, tour local courthouses, and simply ask about opportunities.
“There are lots of opportunities. Just ask,” he said.
The Impact of the Visit
APS said the visits showed the youth that careers in law can be within their reach. In fact, many sitting judges also attended public schools themselves.
Sánchez said he wants to help students feel connected to democracy from an early age. He said he wanted to highlight that the Constitution is more than a historical document. It protects your freedom, guides the laws that keep you safe, and reminds you that everyone has a voice, he added.
Both judges shared the experiences that led them to the bench. Sánchez recalled working as a high school special education teacher before pursuing a career in law.
Meanwhile, Brickhouse shared how she served as a U.S. Army officer before entering law school. She also discussed what she finds most rewarding about her work in civil court.
Brickhouse said she enjoys solving problems and helping people find a resolution. She said she loves that part of her work.
For Sanchez, the most rewarding part of the job is helping veterans, people battling addiction, and others get back on track.
