VIENNA — Students from Vienna High School (VHS) spent part of Dec. 9 inside the Maries County Courthouse attending Government Day, trading in textbooks for firsthand experience. The event is designed to introduce high school students to how county government functions. Students visit all offices to learn about public service and civic duties from  elected officials and staff, encouraging young adults to take an interst local government.

The day was overseen by VHS teacher Patrick Bresnahan, who accompanied students throughout the tour and helped guide them through each stop. The group began their visit upstairs in the courtroom, where they met with Judge Kerry G. Rowden and County Prosecutor Anthony (Tony) Skouby. While there, students observed court proceedings and listened as cases were handled in real time, giving them an opportunity to see how trials unfold beyond what they typically encounter in class.

Bresnahan said the goal of starting in the courtroom was to ground students in reality rather than fiction. He explained seeing the process in person helps students better understand how the legal system actually functions.

“It gives our students a chance to see how the courts actually work,” Bresnahan said. “As opposed to the way it is portrayed in TV and movies.”

After spending time in the courtroom, students continued their tour throughout the courthouse, stopping in various offices along the way. These visits included time with the county clerk and secretary, where students learned about the behind-the-scenes responsibilities that keep county operations organized and moving forward.

Each stop offered a different perspective on how many roles are involved in the judicial process, not just those seen in court. Bresnahan said meeting courthouse staff face to face was a key part of the experience.

“We want students to meet the people in control of the process,” he said. “And have a chance to ask questions.”

Following the morning tour, students broke for lunch before returning to continue their visit. By that point, many had already seen multiple aspects of courthouse operations, from courtroom proceedings to administrative offices, giving them a broader understanding of how local government functions on a daily basis.

Reflecting on the day as a whole, Bresnahan said the event accomplished what it set out to do.

“The day went smoothly,” Bresnahan said. “The cases represented a slice of the typical crimes in our area and I’m glad these kids get the chance to see what will really end them up in court.”

Bresnahan also pointed out that opportunities like Government Day were not available to him when he was a student, which makes providing this experience for students today even more meaningful.