
ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla., December 2, 2025 — The St. Johns County Clerk of the Circuit Court and County Comptroller’s Office is thrilled to introduce Scholars in Service: The Clerk Experience, a new educational shadowing program designed to give upper-level high school students, college students, and recent graduates a hands-on introduction to public service careers.
“Our goal is to inspire the next generation by giving students a meaningful look inside the work we do every day on behalf of our community,” said Clerk Brandon J. Patty. “This program offers valuable experience, mentorship, and insight into careers that make a difference.”
This personalized, single-day experience provides participants with direct exposure to the work of the Clerk’s Office and its many roles within local government. Tailored to each student’s interests and goals, the program offers opportunities to:
- Shadow courtroom proceedings and observe real cases in action, based on availability.
- Explore the administrative operations that support Divisions within the Clerk’s Office.
- Meet with members of the leadership team and courthouse partners to discuss career paths in law, government, and public affairs.
Participants will gain real-world exposure to public service, build professional connections, and explore a broad range of opportunities in law, government administration, and civic leadership.
On November 21, we had the honor of hosting our first scholar, Jahkaris Johnson, a pre-law Florida State University student studying criminology and international affairs.
“Participating in the Scholars in Service program gave me an incredible opportunity to experience the Clerk’s Office firsthand,” Jahkaris said. “From attending the Adoption Day celebration and learning how the process works behind the scenes, to engaging with judges and exploring the criminal and civil court divisions, I gained a deep appreciation for the work done every day to serve the community.”
For more information about Scholars in Service: The Clerk Experience, please visit stjohnsclerk.com/scholars-in-service or call (904) 819-3600.