By Emily Franklin, Senior
Lynbrook High School’s Business Law and Speech and Debate classes extended their learning through a unique opportunity, visiting the Long Island Federal Courthouse on Thursday, Nov. 14.
Located in West Islip, the courthouse is the second largest in the country and the largest structure on Long Island. Students had the chance to meet with United States Circuit Judge Joseph Bianco, who was appointed by President Donald Trump in 2019. Bianco graduated from Georgetown University in 1988 and received a degree in law from Colombia Law School, and his story was inspiring to both students hoping to pursue a future in law and those with other interests.
“The most valuable thing I learned from Judge Bianco is that hard work pays off,” senior Lilah Walsh said, “and you shouldn’t quit at your passion just because you think there are people smarter than you, because it might not be true.”
Students witnessed a touching naturalization ceremony. Led by Judge Bianco, the overwhelming emotion and excitement was palpable in the over 100 individuals and their families as they took the Oath of Allegiance, officially granting them US citizenship.
“[The ceremony] made me happy because after years of hard work, all of these people finally became citizens and it was very special to watch,” Walsh said. “A lot of them were even crying tears of joy,” she added.
Senior Paula Rojas-Young was also moved by the ceremony, learning that “court doesn’t necessarily have to be a bad thing; it can also be a place where wonderful things happen.”
The students also received a tour of the courtrooms and conducted their own mock trial. Walsh participated in the trial as a judge, and she learned a lot about the role: “I experienced the pressure placed upon judges and learned that being one isn’t always easy.” Although a fun activity, Bianco made sure to reinforce the complexity of a true court case, and the impacts on the plaintiff, defendant and others involved.
Visiting the Long Island Federal Courthouse was a memorable experience for all, and the students learned the true workings behind the court system. “I enjoyed the trip because we got to learn from such an important person and see things that we normally don’t during other field trips,” senior Jessica Strohofer said. Judge Bianco created an inspirational day, and speaking about overcoming his obstacles encouraged Rojas-Young and many of the other students to “persevere and build connections whenever you can.” #OwlProud #OwlLearns