By Heather Knight
Elmore Autauga News
Hundreds of second graders from across Elmore County converged in Wetumpka for Law Day. This was a chance for students to learn more about first responders, the judicial system and have a lot of fun and laughs along the way.
Each year second-grade students get the opportunity to come to the Courthouse and see how the court process works as well as get a hands-on opportunity to see specialized vehicles and gear used by first responders.
Officials said the goal is to make children aware that first responders and officers of the court are there to protect the innocent.
The event is headed up by the Lewis family each year. This includes Circuit Judge Bill Lewis, Commissioner Desirae Lewis and Jenna Lewis, spouse to Judge Bill Lewis and a teacher at Wetumpka Elementary, as well as a slew of local volunteers.
“Law Day is the one day everyone looks forward to be on our court calendar,” Judge Bill Lewis said. “There’s no greater sound than that of a group of happy children. The school kids really enjoy the day and we have so many different groups from the community that come together and make it possible.
“From our educators to our law enforcement community to our child advocacy groups it’s the one time of the year where all the agencies that serve our children come together. I am so honored to be a part of the event. We are hopeful that nothing will get in the way of us being able to do this every year for our children,” Judge Lewis said.
Each year the students are given an opportunity to create a poster thanking the local first responders and they are displayed throughout the courthouse. Awards are given after a mock trial program.
Today’s mock trial was based on the story book “Goldilocks and the Three Bears.”
The students observed some of their teachers as characters and Goldilocks was put on trial. In the end twelve of their fellow students were jurors and would determine if she was guilty or innocent of breaking into the bears’ home and other crimes.
Outside there were a variety of agencies and first responders from the community showcasing their equipment for the children.
One of those Chief Assistant District Attorney CJ Robinson. “This was a perfect day to have Law Day. It wasn’t too hot and there wasn’t a cloud in the sky for all of these second graders to learn about all the different agencies and people it takes to make the legal system function. I know the kids look forward to it every year and so do I.”
Check out the gallery of photos from today’s event.
Thank you to the Elmore County Court System, the Lewis family, and all who took part in this great day in Elmore County.
