Bernalillo County Judges Visit Middle Schools Throughout September in Recognition of Constitution Day

In collaboration with Albuquerque Public Schools (APS), judges in Bernalillo County stepped off the bench and into school gymnasiums and cafeterias in September to recognize Constitution Day.

Now in its second year, the initiative brought judges from the Second Judicial District Court and the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court into APS middle schools to help students understand the important role the Constitution plays in their everyday lives.

Two judges visited each school and led interactive discussions focused on civics, constitutional rights, and the principles of fairness and equality to help students connect what they see in their classrooms and communities to the values that shape our country. The judges provided students with pocket Constitutions supplied by APS District 4 Board Member Heather Benavidez.

“Our goal is to help students feel connected to our democracy from an early age,” said Chief Judge of the Metropolitan Court Joshua J. Sánchez. “We want to emphasize that the Constitution is more than just a historical document – it protects our freedoms, guides the laws that keep us safe, and reminds us that everyone has a voice.”

Recognized on September 17th each year, Constitution Day commemorates the day the United States Constitution was signed back in 1787. It serves as a reminder of the importance of this foundational document, which established the framework of our government and safeguards the rights and freedoms of its citizens.

“The Constitution is the foundation of our government and freedom. It is important that everyone understand their rights, duties and obligations as citizens,” said Chief Judge of the Second Judicial District Court Marie Ward. “Educating ourselves about our Constitution, enables us to be more informed and better engaged in our community and our country.”

In an effort to bring additional awareness to Constitution Day, Chief Judge Sánchez threw out the ceremonial first pitch at the Albuquerque Isotopes School Day Matinee home game on September 17 as the Isotopes took on the Salt Lake Bees.

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The judicial branch of New Mexico consists of the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, 34 district courts and 43 magistrate courts in 13 judicial districts, the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court, 33 county probate courts, and 78 municipal courts serving the people of the state.