Contra Costa Legal Community Celebrates, Supports Local High School Law Academies

Sept. 27, 2012 - PRLog -- On September 27, 2012, Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Ovick, and Supervisor Gioia join the Contra Costa County Bar Association and its members in celebration of local High School Law Academies and to support these important programs for at-risk high school students.

Law & Justice Academies are vital because they help students excel academically, prepare for college, and explore careers in the legal field. The academy model is based on meeting the needs of students who are at risk due to poor attendance, low test scores, or because they are economically disadvantaged. Students receive exposure to the legal profession and develop the skills and knowledge needed to embark on advanced professional and academic careers. Department of Education reports show that academy students have significantly higher graduation rates and scores. Additionally, the academy model helps more students meet UC admission requirements.

"Law & Justice Academies instill in students purpose for remaining in school and direction in a variety of law-related careers after graduation. All of our futures are brighter because of these collective efforts." Dick Frankel, a member of the Deer Valley Law & Justice Academy Advisory Committee.

The goal of this year’s Gala is to raise $30,000 to fund law-related field trips, Mock Trial programs and teacher training. Academies being honored are Deer Valley High School Law & Justice Academy (Antioch), Richmond Law Academy, and De Anza Law Academy (Richmond).

For more information about this year’s Gala Honorees and the types of programs that will benefit from this year’s proceeds, please visit: http://cclawyer.cccba.org/2012/09/4505/