36 FEBRUARY 2025 By Rachael Bouley Centered around a restored cellblock on the sixth floor of the Old Courthouse in downtown Phoenix is the Maricopa County Justice Museum and Learning Center. The courthouse, which opened its doors in 1929, featured elements like arched windows and terra-cotta tiles, which were inspired by the region’s early Spanish influence. One of the most recognizable buildings at the time, the courthouse served as the seat of government and judicial proceedings for Maricopa County until 1994, when a new Superior Court building was constructed. The structure has been restored to its 1920s grandeur and is still an active courthouse today, providing people a unique combination of historic insights and contemporary courtroom experiences in one location. Visitors can tour the history of local laws, notable court cases, and state and federal constitutions. “This is a one-of-a-kind destination for those interested in Arizona’s rich legal history and the enduring principles of justice,” Laurie Williams, Executive Director of the Maricopa County Bar Association, said. “To our knowledge, it is the only museum of its kind located within an active courthouse in the United States.” Students, families, and history lovers are invited to journey through justice and dive into Arizona’s legal legacy. Exhibits showcase many key moments that shaped the state and the nation, such as the landmark Supreme Court case In re Gault and the impeachment of Governor Evan Mecham. Visitors can explore the lives of Arizona’s legal icons, including Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, the first woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court – or experience life in a mid-1900s jail, complete with original, preserved prisoner artwork. “Every corner of the museum tells a story about the evolution of justice, the importance of individual rights, and Arizona’s role on the national stage,” Williams said. The museum’s special exhibit, Breaking Ground: The Remarkable Journeys of Justice Sandra Day O’Connor and Arizona Women in Law, is a powerful tribute celebrating her trailblazing career and honoring more than 30 pioneering women lawyers and judges who achieved groundbreaking milestones in Arizona’s legal community. “Their stories remind us that determination, courage, and hard work can pave the way for others to follow,” Williams said. The museum hopes to continue honoring trailblazers and watershed moments. Currently, it is revitalizing an exhibit dedicated to the Miranda v. Arizona case, exploring its profound impact on the legal rights of individuals nationwide. The Justice Museum is committed to inspiring the next generation. Over the past eight years, it has held an art contest for children to encourage creativity with the themes of justice and equality. They plan to announce a 2025 contest in April via their website. “Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a student, or simply curious about the stories behind Arizona’s legal system, this is a welcoming place to learn, reflect, and be inspired,” Williams said. The Justice Museum and Learning Center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 125 W. Washington. Admission is free. P.S. The museum is in a working courthouse, so visitors should allow time to pass through security and be mindful of courtroom proceedings. justicemuseum.org Want to know more about Arizona law? Start here! By Lauren Geiser Bella Vista College Prep (BVCP) recently relocated from Cave Creek to Arcadia, allowing the school to boost enrollment from 68 to 100 students. BVCP combines rigorous athletics with elite training to help create the next generation of basketball stars. Their approach to private school has allowed students to excel both in the classroom and on the courts. Principal Matt Gordon is a seasoned basketball coach with almost 20 years of experience, having been at Phoenix College before joining BVCP. “I’ve always wanted to be involved with high-level athletics with academics,” he said. “When the opportunity came to lead Bella Vista, I jumped at it.” The school’s basketball program is a cornerstone of its reputation, with approximately 70 percent of students participating. Seven teams – six boys’ teams and one girls’ team – compete in elite leagues such as the EYBL Scholastic League and The Grind Session. Nike’s EYBL Scholastic League comprises 14 schools across the U.S. and is widely regarded as the country’s top high school basketball league. Bella Vista’s boys’ team is currently ranked No. 12 in the ESPN National High School Top 25. Another equally prestigious league, the Grind Session, saw Bella Vista’s girls’ team win the championship in 2023 and become the national runner-up in 2024. These platforms draw top-tier talent, with many athletes advancing to collegiate programs and professional opportunities. “We currently have a student from Senegal, Mo Sylla, who is projected to be a lottery pick in the 2026 NBA Draft,” Gordon said. Mo, who came to Bella Vista after playing at the NBA Academy in Mexico, recently committed to play at Georgia Tech next year. The team also features standout players like junior Miles Sadler, ranked among the top 30 players in his class; senior Jaion Pitt, ranked in the top 100; and sophomore Paul Osaruyi, named one of the top five players in his class in the United States. The program’s global reach is unparalleled, with students hailing from 25 different countries. Bella Vista also excels in extracurricular programs, such as the National Honor Society, International Club, and its ROBO Bears robotics team that participates in the annual FIRST Robotics Competition. Bella Vista’s 15-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio provides each student with a hands-on approach to education, where they can ask their teachers specific questions about their work to maximize time spent in the classroom. Sports are embedded in the school schedule, allowing students to engage in athletic development while staying on track academically. The curriculum offers traditional courses brought to life using real-world sports case studies, examples and media from high-profile leaders within the global sports industry. The school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals extends beyond academics and athletics. Gordon believes sports teach students essential life skills. “They teach you how to communicate, work with others, sacrifice for a greater good,” he said. “In our society, it has become individualized, and being involved in sports teaches selflessness and helps students when they move on to college, life, business and relationships.” With its focus on academic rigor and elite and individualized training, Bella Vista College Prep remains dedicated to creating a supportive environment where students can pursue their athletic passions and educational goals. bellavistacollegeprep.com Welcome to the neighborhood, Bella Vista College Prep Bella Vista defeated 1 of 1 Prep Academy 77-66 in the championship game of the Beach Ball Classic Prep Division in December 2024. PHOTO COURTESY OF MATT GORDON Displays at the museum focus on watershed moments in Arizona’s legal history, including Miranda v. Arizona. PHOTO COURTESY OF LAURIE WILLIAMS