Join Our Summer Youth Justice & Advocacy Academy

Apply Now - Space is Limited!

The PD10 Justice & Advocacy Academy is a new, immersive, week-long experience designed for motivated high school students interested in law, justice, and public service. Hosted by the Law Office of the Public Defender, Tenth Judicial Circuit, the Academy offers an inside look at the criminal justice system and the critical role of advocacy through hands-on learning and direct engagement with legal professionals.

Program Details
Dates: June 8–12, 2026 | Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Public Defender’s Office, Bartow Courthouse

Eligibility Requirements
✔ Rising high school junior or senior, or May 2026 graduate
✔ 16–18 years old 
✔ Enrolled in a Polk County public or private school
✔ Minimum 3.0 GPA

How to Apply
✔ Submit a completed application
✔ Include one teacher letter of recommendation

Deadline: March 31, 2026

Space is limited; participants will be accepted based on eligibility and committee review.

📧 Email: twheat@pd10.org
📬 Mail: PO Box 9000 – Drawer PD, Bartow, FL 33831