Exciting news! Our school’s Mock Trial teams have both qualified for the state competition, a remarkable achievement that deserves recognition and celebration.
Mock Trial is a competitive educational activity where students simulate real courtroom trials and take on the roles of attorneys and witnesses. Each team is given a case packet, consisting of a fictional legal scenario based on either civil or criminal law. Students must research the case, understand legal procedures, and develop arguments to present in front of the judge.
Researching the state levels is not just about the competition, it represents countless hours of dedication, preparation, and teamwork.
Mountain Ridge had 2 teams go to the competitions and both of them have placed into the state competitions! Our students have engaged in rigorous practice sessions, honed their public speaking abilities, and built camaraderie that extends beyond the courtroom. This achievement is a testament to their hard work and resilience.
When asked how she prepared for the competitions, Geneva Lewis, a sophomore at Mountain Ridge, said, “I used a lot of memorizing strategies, like recording myself to be a good witness. And also made a Quizizz for the objections.”
Sofia Leiter, a freshman and a part of the Mock Trial team, agrees with Geneva as she says, “I had my entire opening statement and I knew all my objections by heart, so that really helped me be confident in the courtroom.”
Advancing to the states means our teams will be in competition with the best from the region, giving them the chance to showcase their talents on a larger stage. This exposure can open doors for participants, inspiring them towards careers in law, public speaking, or other fields requiring strong advocacy skills.
Athena Jebaoi, a senior who is part of the Mock Trial team at Mountain Ridge, says “The most important skill in Mock Trial is being able to think on your feet as it’s about know how to respond to people and knowing how to adjust thinking, especially since it’s mirroring a real trial and in a real trial not all the evidence would always get in.”
In summary, the Mock Trial teams making it to states is a monumental accomplishment that speaks to our student’s hard work, the support of our educators, and the commitment of our schools to fostering a dynamic learning environment. As we gear up for the state competition, let’s rally around our teams, celebrating their achievements and looking forward to what they’ll accomplish next!
