ST PAUL, Minn. — Higher Ground Academy is a K-12 college preparatory charter school on a mission to prepare students like Maymuna Khalif for life after graduation.
"I want to become a lawyer because like I'm good at like arguing," Khalif said.
The school was founded by St. Paul's first Black city council member, William Wilson.
The school went on a special field trip Thursday to the federal courthouse downtown to learn about career options. Special - because some of the judges hosted what they call Our Day at the Courthouse for the first time.
Judge Jerry Blackwell opened the day inside a courtroom.
Before President Joe Biden appointed him to the bench last December, he was a prosecutor in former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin's trial for the murder of George Floyd.
"You'll understand more about the law," Blackwell told the students. "You'll understand more about the government."
Blackwell grew up in Jordan, Minnesota, and Jordan High School was also part of the inaugural day bringing together urban and rural students.
Both schools got a first look at the new Justice and Democracy Center of Minnesota, which features interactive exhibits. It was added to the courthouse over the summer. Employees say schools are encouraged to book their own field trips throughout the year. The center is free to visit.
Back in the courtroom, a panel of law enforcement professionals from the ATF, DEA, FBI, St. Paul Police Department and U.S. Marshal Service explained how they do their jobs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen Slaughter and defense attorney Manny Atwal served as moderators.
After the panel, Governor Tim Walz stopped by and talked about his background in both government and education. The former teacher also applauded the judicial branch for coming up with specialty courts.
"I learn something new about this branch every day," Walz said. "When I ran for governor I kind of theoretically understood one of my jobs would be appointing judges in Minnesota. What I didn't understand was that will probably be the most important thing I do as governor."
A DHS K9 officer named Pickles and his handler then demonstrated how to find an explosive device. After lunch, students met Minnesota Senate President Bobby Joe Champion (DFL, D-59) and participated in a mock hearing involving a bank robbery.
Khalif, who recently joined mock trials at school, said the entire experience was helpful.
"I'm actually, I'm more fascinated by it now. I learned a lot more about becoming a lawyer today," the ninth-grader said. "I'm looking forward to learning a lot more about it."
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