The Lakeview government classes recently took a trip to the Trumbull Correctional Institute. The trip gave students a chance to experience and learn more about the judicial system in a way that cannot be taught only through textbooks. Students were able to hear personal stories from inmates, learn about law enforcement careers, and see how the prison system operates firsthand. The experience allowed students to gain a deeper understanding of crime, consequences, and the importance of making responsible decisions.
The government trip has become a very important learning opportunity for students at Lakeview. Many students look forward to participating because it provides a real-life perspective on the justice system. Instead of only learning about laws, courts, and punishments in class, students are able to witness how the system affects real people and real lives. The visit to the correctional institution gives students an opportunity to better understand the serious consequences that can come from poor choices.
The Trumbull Correctional Institute staff spoke with students about daily life inside the prison and the different programs that are available to inmates. Students learned how some programs are designed to help inmates improve themselves, gain education, and eventually return to society as better people. The trip also introduced students to different careers in law enforcement and corrections. Many students found it interesting to hear about the jobs and responsibilities that exist within the prison system.
Government teacher Cameron Carson explained how successful the trip has become over the past few years. Carson said, “Our second trip to TCI was an overwhelming success and something I look forward to continuing for years to come. This trip gives us a first hand look into our judicial system. We get personal stories from inmates about their experiences through the courts and our local prison system. We learn about the different programs the institution offers and how they are used to benefit the local community. Our students also learn about different careers in law enforcement. This trip has gotten a lot of positive feedback from students and seems to be something they really enjoy.”
Carson explains that the trip allows students to connect what they learn in the classroom to real-life situations. By hearing personal stories from inmates, students are able to understand how one bad decision can completely change a person’s future. The trip also helps students recognize the importance of accountability and responsibility. The positive feedback from students has shown that the experience is both educational and impactful.
Junior Angelique Adkins shared her thoughts on the experience and why she believes students should continue taking the trip in the future. Adkins explained, “I really enjoyed the trip to the jail because it was really educational on something that a lot of people won’t be able to experience. I think we should go back because it’s a great experience for high school students.”
Adkins explains that the trip provided students with a unique educational opportunity that many people never get the chance to experience. Visiting the correctional institution gave students a better understanding of how the prison system works and why it is important to make smart choices. Many students agreed that hearing directly from inmates made the lessons feel more real and meaningful than simply reading about them in class.
Junior Malea Smith was also asked about how the trip impacted her perspective. Smith responded, “I enjoyed the Government trip because it helped me to understand the repercussions of a simple action or friend. When the longest attending prisoner gave us a speech, it really impacted my view on who I see as my friend, and how I think before I act. This is important for everyone to learn about because knowing about the other side of crime can help people to avoid it!”
Smith explains that hearing the inmates’ stories had a strong impact on many students during the trip. Listening to the experiences of prisoners helped students realize how quickly poor decisions or negative influences can affect someone’s life. The speeches encouraged students to think more carefully about their actions and the people they surround themselves with. Many students left the trip with a different perspective on crime and the consequences that come with it.
The government trip to Trumbull Correctional Institute has continued to leave a positive impact on students and staff at Lakeview. Students have gained valuable knowledge about the judicial system while also learning important life lessons that can help guide their future decisions. The experience has quickly become one of the most meaningful educational opportunities offered through the government classes. With the positive feedback from students and teachers, the trip will likely continue for years to come, and continue educating future classes about the realities of the justice system.
