Ella Stewart shadows Judge Ransom

Job shadowing is a professional development practice where an individual observes a more experienced colleague or professional as they perform their daily work tasks.

It can also be a powerful tool for talent development and succession planning and a valuable practice that can significantly benefit employers and employees.

On Jan. 13, Atlanta High School senior Ella Stewart shadowed Cass County Judge Travis Ransom.

Ransom wrote on his Facebook post that Stewart spent the day getting a hands-on look at county government— attending a regular session of Commissioners Court, observing probate hearings (including a hybrid hearing via Zoom), and meeting with many of the elected officials and staff who serve our county every day.

She was also treated to a tour and visited several local government officials.

Judge Ransom posted that throughout the day, she toured the historic Cass County Courthouse and visited with District Attorney Courtney Golden, Sheriff Larry Rowe, County Clerk Amy Varnell, District Clerk Jamie Albertson, Adult Probation, the Auditor’s Office, Trea- surer’s Office, and the Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office with Angela Young, who also serves as Cass County’s Voter Registrar.

Stewart also had the opportunity to see local industry up close with a driving tour of ArkLaTex Tire and SIDCO Minerals, where she learned about siderite mining operations and land reclamation efforts here in Cass County.

When asked what benefits job shadowing teaches our youth, especially on a government level, Judge Ransom replied.

“When students like Ella are able to step inside their courthouse, ask questions, and see public service up close, it helps demystify government. It shows them that government isn’t an abstract idea—it’s people serving their neighbors and that’s an important lesson for our youth. Helping young people understand how county government serves their daily lives is one of the most meaningful investments we can make in the future of our communities.”

Stewart also spoke on her exciting job shadowing journey and what she learned along the way.

“From the departments of government, to real court cases, I learned so much during my time job shadowing with our county judge, Travis Ransom,” Stewart remarked.

“We started the morning attending commissioner’s court, speaking mainly about funding, property, and sales taxes, while sticking strictly to an agenda. Then I had a tour of the courthouse and saw the many, many record books stored back to the 1800s! Probate court was next, and in the office, I listened to two different people become independent executors as the judge inspected the will,” Stewart said. “Back at the district office, Judge Ransom told me about the phrase ‘tax churn’ and how it affects our county specifically. He then explained how a clear vision is essential for productivity. After lunch at a local restaurant, we discussed local industries and I saw a mining operation and learned about siderite! Finally, I took a tour of the district office and saw the many, many responsibilities of the incredible people in the office and witnessed checks and balances in action. Overall, my biggest takeaway was that engaged leadership is key to a successful government, and I definitely saw it on Tuesday with Judge Ransom.”

Not only did Stewart learn valuable information and lessons but she also registered to vote.

“One of the highlights of the day was Ella registering to vote for the first time—a meaningful step in her civic journey,” Judge Ransom said. “It was a great day of learning, questions and conversation about public service, leadership and the many roles county government plays in our community. I appreciate Ella’s curiosity and professionalism and wish her the very best as she prepares for her next chapter.”