Throughout the 2017-18 year, the Prince William County Bar Association partnered with Manassas City Public Schools (MCPS) for various programs.
The bar association was recognized at a recent Manassas City School Board meeting.
It sponsored the Character Counts! Essay Contest, the Court Tours/Mock Trial Program, the Rule of Law Project, and the “So You’re 18” Program, according to a release.
Participants of the Character Counts! Essay Contest submitted entries that focused on the six pillars of good character — trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship. Volunteer attorneys judged the submissions.
In the Court Tours/Mock Trial Program, attorneys gave middle school students tours of the Prince William County Judicial Center and spoke about careers in law and law enforcement. It concluded with a mock trial about underage drinking or “sexting.”
A Civics teacher and an attorney collaborated to create a lesson plan for the Rule of Law Project. Middle school students learned that citizens help make laws.
Attorneys also worked alongside high school seniors this past school year. For the “So You’re 18” program, attorneys taught students about the legal rights and responsibilities once they become an adult.
At least 120 attorneys and judges volunteered for more than 200 hours in schools throughout Prince William County, and the cities of Manassas and Manassas Park, according to Prince William County Bar Association President Sarah Knapp.
To learn more information about the community service programs the bar association sponsors, visit www.pwcba.org.
