Apply for the 2026 District 20 DA Academy
High school seniors in Carter, Love, Marshall, Murray, and Johnston Counties are invited to apply for a free, one-week program to explore the criminal justice system.
What You’ll Do
This program combines classroom learning with hands-on activities. You will learn about:
Investigations: How criminal cases are built.
Courtroom Skills: How to make charging decisions, question witnesses, and follow court etiquette.
Career Paths: Explore different jobs within the legal and justice systems.
Leadership: Learn how to be a positive "servant leader" in your community.
Program Details
Dates: June 15 – June 18, 2026 (Monday–Thursday)
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Must be picked up by 3:15 p.m.)
Cost: Free! Lunch and snacks are provided.
Dress Code: Business-casual (no jeans or t-shirts), as you will be in court.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply, you must meet the following criteria:
Grade Level: Entering or just finishing the 12th grade in Summer 2026.
Location: Attending high school in one of the five counties listed above.
Record: No open criminal or delinquent cases.
Transport: You must provide your own transportation.
Dietary Needs: If you have special dietary restrictions, please bring your own lunch.
How to Apply
Space is limited. To be considered, you must complete all forms in the application packet.
Completed application packets can be returned to the Carter County District Attorney's Office c/o Cassie Hightower, 107 1st Avenue SW, Ardmore, OK 73401 or emailed directly to cassie.hightower@dac.state.ok.us.
For more information contact the DA Academy Coordinator via email at cassie.hightower@dac.state.ok.us or by calling the office at (580) 223-9674.
The District Attorney's office does not discriminate based on race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation.