SISD’s Libertas Academy gives students a front-row seat to democracy

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — Students at Libertas Academy at Americas High School took an active role in democracy by speaking with candidates running in local races. The academy hosted city council candidate debates, and students spoke directly to candidates and asked questions.

Local teenagers took a deeper look into the electoral process and gained knowledge of the importance of informed participation and civic engagement.

Libertas Academy is a one-of-a-kind program at Socorro Independent School District for students who want to pursue careers in public administration, law and government.

The academy is one of only four in Texas. The highly competitive program accepts nearly 130 students every year.

Amanda Zubiate Stevens, a Libertas Academy coordinator, told ABC-7 that students from various corners of the Borderland attend the distinct's academy.

“It's great to be a trailblazer. We love to make sure that we are leading the way in all things law and government. One of the things that's foundational about our program is that we have real leaders," she said.

Students enrolled in the academy also gain real-world knowledge as they learn about the role of public service and the democratic process. Students learn the basics of the judicial system, how to write legal papers, and how federal and state courts operate.

“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 Libertas law instructor.

“They've had so many opportunities of not just being in class and us just instructing them with lessons, but they actually get to meet people involved in government, in law. They get hands-on experience,” Gustavo Rodriguez, a government instructor, said.

Zubiate Stevens said she's thrilled to know that her students are eager to be informed citizens.

“They are part of what is happening in their future," she said. "Even if they're not a voting age, they know someone that's a voting age. So it's really fundamental for our students to have that engagement. We love the fact that our students are out there."

Sophomore Diego Serrato said he’s interested in a career in criminal defense or prosecution. He noted that the academy has provided him with many opportunities already.

“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," Serrato said.

Last week, Libertas Academy hosted an El Paso City Council debate featuring candidates running for City Council District 5 and District 6. Students acted as moderators.

“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,” one student said.

We are the future of our country, our county and our city. And it's really important that we as youth gain knowledge,” said Serrato.

"We love that our students are getting their voice heard, and we want to continue to give them those opportunities," Zubiate Stevens added.

To learn more about the Libertas Academy, click here.