The City of Surprise is now accepting applications for its Court Exploring Program that gives high school students a chance to learn about and participate in Arizona's court system. 

The program, which begins Jan. 17, is an interactive worksite-based career education program. The program is designed to create awareness of the state's judicial system by giving participants the opportunity to observe and participate in the court system. Students participate in mock trials, observe civil and criminal proceedings and take a behind-the-scenes tour of the courthouse.

Students in the program also have an opportunity to meet city court staff and others involved with the court system.

The application deadline for the Court Exploring Program is Jan. 10 and is limited to 15 students in grades nine through 12. The program will be held on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 3:30-5 p.m. and will run from Jan. 17 through the end of the school year. 

Visit surpriseaz.gov/courtexplorers for applications and additional information.