On Thursday April 25, 2019, the Will County’s Circuit Clerk’ Office swore in
thirty two cadet clerks as part of their annual participation in the national Take Your
Daughters and Sons to Work Day. This year’s theme was “Workforce Development for
All”. Ms. Chasteen said, “This office has supported Take your Daughters and Sons to
Work Day for at least fourteen years. By inviting our daughters, sons and grandchildren
into their parents work environment, it is our hope they learn the importance of their
education and how that impacts and prepares them for their futures”.
This year’s theme asked the question, “How do we develop the workforce of the future”?
The children get a chance to learn to build a strong work ethic that will empower them to
effect positive change in their lives, schools and homes. “Being part of a team in the
workplace, teaches how each department relies on the other to help make the office
and the courtroom run smoothly. When each member of the team works with each
other, it promotes a healthy working environment, provides good work product and
invites us to closer connections by working together. Each year these children get a
better understanding of what their parent/grandparent does for the Circuit Clerk’s Office,
in and out of the courtroom. Every child spends time with their parent/grandparent,
where they are shown the everyday functions of the Circuit Clerk’s Office”, said
Chasteen.
The children were able to speak with Judge R.D. Rickmon, who explained courtroom
procedures. Some of the things he described were, the protocol of the courtroom and
how it is important to be quiet and listen. He also described the role of a jury, the
witness and the difference between a circuit judge and an associate judge. The cadet
clerks were able to ask him questions and sit in the courtroom. He also stressed the
importance of staying in school and studying hard.
Chasteen continued, “It is always such a good thing when the kids all gather at the end
of the day for their certificates and have a positive attitude at what they learned from the
event experience, their parent/grandparent and their dedication to this office. Hopefully,
this opportunity gives them a chance to think about their future and all they can
become”.