Learning Communities visited the Norfolk City Courthouse to meet with the Court Appointed Special Advocates of Norfolk (CASA).
NSU’s Learning Communities (LC) expand students' horizons and foster a profound sense of curiosity and exploration. They focus on academic learning and aim to broaden students' horizons by collaborating with local businesses and organizations. The collaborations aim to cultivate a robust network by connecting students with community leaders from various fields, promoting cooperation, and exchanging diverse perspectives. Co-curricular partnerships ensure that students have access to multiple careers, ideas, and people that can inspire them.
During the 2024–2025 academic year, LC has partnered with WHRO Public Media Studios and TechArk to develop activities that enhance students' educational journey. Recently, they visited the Norfolk City Courthouse to meet with the Court Appointed Special Advocates of Norfolk (CASA). Students learned about child advocacy, ethics, and how to become a court-appointed special advocate.
Students have worked with CASA staff this semester and learned from Judge Devin Paige and Judge Michael Beverly; both judges are from the Norfolk community and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School. CASA invited three students to train with CASA this spring and summer. Afterward, they can begin working as court-appointed special advocates. This experience will broaden students' understanding of the legal system and inspire them to consider careers in law and advocacy.