Redwood students brief Tulare County supervisors on Visalia Unified Law and Justice Academy

Seniors from Redwood High School’s Law and Justice Academy described their four‑year career‑technical program to the Tulare County Board of Supervisors and invited supervisors to observe how the program prepares students for legal careers and civic engagement.

The academy, run by Visalia Unified School District’s career technical education office, immerses students in law‑based curriculum from freshman foundations through senior advanced civil law and pairs classroom work with internships and field experiences, students and staff told the board.

"The Academy of Law and Justice is one of the eight linked learning academies within Visalia Unified School District and is a four year program designed for students who aspire to become lawyers or pursue careers in the legal field," said Chloe Seals, a senior at Redwood High School and a four‑year student in the academy. "This project challenges us to research real world issues in our community, develop solutions, and advocate for meaningful change."

Corina Mello, a work‑based learning coordinator with Visalia Unified’s career technical education department, thanked the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office and the Tulare County Public Defender’s Office for providing annual internships that give students direct exposure to legal work. Mello also introduced the students and noted advisory committee support from local leaders who coordinate internships and other hands‑on opportunities.

Board members congratulated the students and praised the career‑pathway approach. "I'm a real strong advocate for these types of work based learning programs," said Supervisor Townsend, noting that programs that bring students into the community and bring community professionals into classrooms help students gain professional skills. Townsend also told students, "Tulare County's hiring," encouraging them to consider county employment. Supervisor McCarrie said the internships and mentorship from legal professionals are critical as local legal firms experience staffing shortages.

Students described the academy’s optional extracurriculars and competitions. "A lot of the students in the academy do pursue mock trial as well," Seals said; she noted the academy’s county competition was scheduled for later in January.

The board and staff thanked teacher Ross Eskridge and counseling assistant Alma Hurtado, and invited the academy to the dais for a group photograph. No formal action was taken; the presentation was received.

The academy delegation told the board the program’s civic action projects and internships are intended to develop advocacy, critical thinking and communication skills that prepare students for legal professions or other careers. The students asked supervisors questions and received advice about careers and internships from the board members.