ROMULUS, Mich. – On Thursday, hundreds of fourth-grade students from Metro Detroit experienced the justice system from a new perspective during an innovative community outreach program at the 34th District Courthouse in Romulus.
The courthouse transformed its traditional setting into an interactive learning environment. Judges and court staff hosted the fourth annual Community Day.
There was a special focus on engaging young minds through education and positive interaction with legal professionals.
“Many young adults grow up thinking that legal and law enforcement aspects are all negative. That’s not what it’s all about,” said Avery Taylor, Director of Community Engagement and Probation Officer for the 34th District Court. The event marks the court’s fourth year organizing Community Day activities.
This year featured a groundbreaking addition—a Community Day Quiz Bowl sponsored by Feiger Law, in which teams from various Metro Detroit schools competed in answering questions about civics and American history.
“The questions cover the constitution, the bill of rights, and the branches of government,” says Michael Russell from Feiger Law. “These are foundational concepts that help young people develop a good understanding of the law going forward.”
Judge Teresa Patton emphasizes the importance of early exposure to the legal system.
“First, we don’t want them to be scared of this building,” said Patton. “Second, we serve as an example that we are everyday people. This is a place of service, not a place of sitting above others.”
Patton, who identifies herself as a mom, wife, community member, and football coach, believes these interactions could inspire future legal professionals.
“These are our future lawyers, judges, court administrators, and probation officers,” Patton said.
The inaugural quiz bowl proved highly successful, with Edgemont Elementary School claiming first place and Barth Elementary in Romulus securing second place.
For many participants, it marked their first visit to a courthouse and direct interaction with legal professionals.
“I learned that there’s a lot of different rooms, and all of the judges are really nice,” shared student Sophia Jones, reflecting the positive impressions the program left on young participants.
Following the success of this year’s event, court staff and sponsors have committed to making the quiz bowl an annual feature of Community Day, ensuring continued engagement between the legal community and local youth.
