Pensacola High School
500 West Maxwell Street
Pensacola, Florida 32501

Program Description:

The academy program at Pensacola High School offers a comprehensive program to students in grades 9-12, who wish to pursue interests in the law-related or government service. Students will work in an atmosphere which fosters independent learning, participation in research, and community projects. The program is available to students entering the 9th or 10th grade and will prepare those students for gainful law-related employment following high school graduation or for college programs that culminate in law-related occupations.

Program Highlights:

• Unique course offerings covering issues in law, public service, government, technology, and law enforcement/criminal justice.
• Technology intensive application of classroom learning
• Lectures by local professionals and public officials
• Field trips to city and county government officers, local colleges, and federal, state, and county courts
• Public service projects to fulfill community service hours
• Advanced placement and Dual enrollment opportunities at local colleges
• Tech-Prep/Florida Bright Scholars opportunities
• Summer programs for accelerated and enhanced learning
• Mentoring and partnerships with attorneys, law enforcement officers, and government service professionals
• Executive internships (Employment)
• Mock Trial Competition
• Mediation Training
• Learning experiences and activities relevant to real life
• Florida National Law Honor Society

Law Academy students will work closely with professionals, participating in shadowing and mentoring programs. Local professionals including distinguished practicing attorneys, judges and representatives from the university community offer guidance and assistance to the program. These professionals will provide leadership, offer summer internships, act as mentors, and promote the Academy in the community.

Academy students learn by working in a law-related field. Some of the activities in which students participate include: spending a day at City Hall, meeting with elected and non-elected officials; simulating a county commission meeting and discussing the issues of government; visiting and observing trials in progress to see what judges and attorneys do on a daily basis; working on political forums and public service projects with local and state political figures; and visiting local correction and law enforcement agencies.

The Academy is a Tech-Prep/Florida Bright Scholars program, allowing students to earn credit toward and Associate of Science Degree at Pensacola Junior College. Academy students will also be prepared with the technological and interpersonal skills that can make them employable in a job market eager for competent workers with law-related employment preparation.

Admission Requirements:

• Completed Grade 8
• Completed Application Form
• Completed Student Rationale for studying at the Academy of Law and Public Service
• 2.75 minimum GPA
• Letters of Recommendation from three (3) teachers or school administrators
• Record of exemplary conduct which is expected to continue throughout high school

Download an application for the Academy of Law and Public Service below
Application (.doc)
Application (.pdf)