EL PASO, Texas — Socorro Independent School District’s Libertas Academy is giving local high‑school students a front‑row seat to democracy. The one‑of‑a‑kind program, housed at Americas High School, invites students to engage directly with candidates running for city council, moderate debates and ask pointed questions about policy and public service.
Real‑world learning in the classroom
Libertas Academy, one of only four such programs in Texas, accepts roughly 130 highly motivated students each year who are interested in public administration, law and government. Coordinator Amanda Zubiate Stevens told ABC‑7 that the academy draws students from every corner of the Borderland, describing the school as a “trailblazer” that “leads the way in all things law and government.”
Students receive instruction on the judicial system, legal writing and the operation of federal and state courts. “It’s a great opportunity for students to get involved, to learn the legal system, practice the skills that normally students only would get in law school,” said David Carrasco, a law instructor at the academy. Government instructor Gustavo Rodriguez added that the program goes beyond classroom lectures, giving participants “hands‑on experience” by meeting real‑world officials.
Students take the stage
Last week the academy hosted an El Paso City Council debate for District 5 and District 6 candidates. Students acted as moderators, posed questions and facilitated discussion. “A really cool experience to be a part of, and especially to see a lot of our students show up and show that civic engagement matters,” said one participant.
Sophomore Diego Serrato, who hopes to become a criminal‑defense or prosecution attorney, praised the academy’s impact on his future. “It’s been an awesome experience. It’s opened a lot of doors for me, and I’ve gained a lot of knowledge in the legal field,” he said.
Building informed citizens
While many of the students are not yet of voting age, Zubiate Stevens emphasized the importance of early engagement. “Even if they’re not a voting age, they know someone that is. It’s fundamental for our students to have that engagement,” she explained. “We love that our students are out there, learning how our government works and preparing to be the future of our country, our county and our city.”
The academy’s emphasis on informed participation aligns with the community’s broader goal of strengthening families and preserving the constitutional right to free speech and civic involvement. By exposing young people to the democratic process, Libertas Academy helps ensure that the next generation will be equipped to defend liberty, uphold the rule of law and serve their neighborhoods with integrity.
How to learn more
Parents and community members interested in the program can visit the Socorro Independent School District website for enrollment information and upcoming events.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
