Local Fifth Graders Attend Law Day Job Shadowing In O'Neill

Laura Reynoldson, Clerk Magistrate for Holt County Court, served as the local coordinator for Law Day Job Shadowing, a project of the Nebraska Supreme Court and the Nebraska Bar Foundation.  As coordinator, Reynoldson matched students from O'Neill Elementary with legal professionals in the community.

On April 29, 2025, Fifth grade students from O'Neill Elementary accompanied by teachers attended the Law Day Job Shadowing program at the Holt County Courthouse in O'Neill.  Attorney Ashley Boettcher and County Judge Kale Burdick hosted the students in the Holt County District Courtroom. Kami Hooey, district court reporter, was on hand to demonstrate court reporting.  The students and hosts explored legal careers, and entered into discussions about the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to become a lawyer, judge, court reporter, and other law-related professionals.  

The purpose of the job shadowing activity is to show the students the rewards of staying in school, working hard, and studying.  The hosts analyzed with the students the skills necessary for career opportunities, including individual abilities, skills, education, and the changing supply and demand for those skills.  

O'Neill Police Chief Matt Otte met with the students and explained how some of their equipment is used by law enforcement.  Additionally, Nebraska State Patrol Troopers Simon Bessmer and Justin Brase gave a drone demonstration to the students and explained the many benefits of drones, especially in search and rescue efforts.

This year marks the 24th year of statewide Law Day Job Shadowing.  Since the statewide program began in 2002, more than 6,000 fifth graders have participated in the Job Shadowing activity.

President Eisenhower proclaimed the first Law Day in 1958 as a “day of national dedication to the principle of government under the law.”  More information on Law Day is located on the American Bar Association's website, www.lawday.org. Information about the Foundation's Law Day program can be found at. http://www.nebarfnd.org/civics-education/law-day-job-shadowing.

Bar Foundation President Charles F. Gotch, Omaha, comments, “As part of its mission to serve the public and the legal profession, the Bar Foundation is pleased to be able to cooperate with the Nebraska Supreme Court to bring together fifth graders and lawyers and judges in celebration of this great day.”

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