On February 27, 2026, the United States District Court for the District of Puerto Rico welcomed fifty-one 8th grade students from Commonwealth-Parkville School as part of their English and Civics curriculum. Having recently read 12 Angry Men, the students engaged in thoughtful discussions about the judicial process, civic responsibility, and the critical role of juries in the American legal system, which inspired their interest in visiting the Court.

 

During their visit, U.S. Magistrate Judge Giselle López-Soler met with the students to discuss the roles of key participants in a criminal proceeding. The students then observed a live Status/Argumentative Hearing, providing them with a firsthand look at courtroom procedures and advocacy in practice. Following the hearing, the students participated in a question-and-answer session with Judge López-Soler, the Assistant United States Attorney, and defense counsel.

 

This visit offered a meaningful opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world judicial proceedings, further advancing the Court’s commitment to civic education and community outreach.