This month, the Supreme Court of Ohio traveled to Carrollton to hear three cases before a unique audience: more than 900 high school students. The visit to Carroll County was part of the Supreme Court’s long-running Off-Site Court Program, which brings oral arguments into local high schools across the state.

The program began in 1987 under Chief Justice Thomas J. Moyer as part of a national and statewide effort to commemorate the 200-year anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution. Designed to give Ohioans a clear understanding of the judicial branch, Chief Justice Moyer launched an 18-month tour with seven stops. Nearly four decades later, Off-Site Court continues to serve as a cornerstone of civic education about the judicial branch in Ohio.

The Court’s first off-site session was held in Marietta, recognizing the city’s bicentennial as the first permanent settlement in the Northwest Territory. From there, the Court traveled to Lima, Youngstown, Warren, Toledo, Cleveland, and Cincinnati. At each stop, community members had the rare opportunity to witness Ohio’s high court in action.

Education has always been central to the program. In the weeks leading up to each visit, local attorneys and bar associations partner with schools to help students understand the cases they will hear and the broader role of courts in government. Those students are then invited to attend oral arguments, often held just steps from their classrooms.

Chief Justice Moyer frequently pointed to the program’s significance: “It’s extremely important and not just to young people,” he told The Lima News in 1988. “In our country, people look to the judicial system to peacefully and fairly resolve the disputes they have. People have had confidence in the judicial system, and part of keeping that confidence is informing people how the system works.”

Following the Court’s visit to Lima, one student spoke to the paper about the value of the program.

“It’s a chance to see what the judicial process is all about,” the student said. “I would expect that they would keep doing this. I hope they do because it’s good.”

Since that first circuit, the Off-Site Court Program has expanded its reach, bringing civic education directly to 78 counties across the state. As the program approaches its 40th year, its continued growth stands as a testament to Chief Justice Moyer’s legacy and the enduring pursuit of meaningful civic education throughout Ohio.

As America is preparing for its 250th birthday on July 4, 2026, the Supreme Court is celebrating the semiquincentennial with a yearlong celebration called “The Story of America,” highlighting significant historical events. Beyond digital content, the celebration includes events and displays at the Court. The initiative aims to spark curiosity, enhance civic literacy, and honor key moments in American and Ohio history.