AP Government Students Discuss Due Process with Judge
Students in Dr. Aaron Ketchell’s AP Government class got a real-world look at the legal system on Tuesday, Oct. 21.
Judge Sally Pokorny of the Kansas 7th District Court, Division 2, visited class along with two court reporters.
The visit tied directly to the class’s unit on due process. Students learned about civil liberties and the difference between civil and criminal cases. They discussed the 14th Amendment, which guarantees equal protection and due process under the law. Judge Pokorny also explained how judges in Kansas consider factors such as criminal history, case severity and mental health when determining sentencing.
The visit tied directly to the class’s unit on due process. Students learned about civil liberties and the difference between civil and criminal cases. They discussed the 14th Amendment, which guarantees equal protection and due process under the law. Judge Pokorny also explained how judges in Kansas consider factors such as criminal history, case severity and mental health when determining sentencing.
The discussion included a demonstration from the court reporters on stenography and the evolution of court reporting. Mary Kay Howe, who recently retired after nearly 50 years in the Douglas County District Court, showed students how a stenography machine works, typing each student’s name in real time. The reporters emphasized the importance of accurate, unbiased transcription in court proceedings.
The visit gave students a real life view of the judicial system and reinforced key concepts from their AP Government curriculum.
