A senate RESOLUTION

 

TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR the JET Middle School Mock Trial Team for winning the 2025 Middle School Mock Trial State Championship.

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate are pleased to recognize the JET Middle School mock trial team for their recent win in the Middle School Mock Trial State Championship; and

 

Whereas, the fifteen-student team powered their way through head-to-head competition against other middle school mock trial teams from across the State. Attorney volunteers judged the two-day competition based on the students' understanding and presentation of the mock trial case, including use of exhibits and command of their roles in the courtroom; and

 

Whereas, participating students included Isabella Cain, Nathan Carter, Rebecca Childs, Emalyn Cockrell, Izel Griffin Restrepo, Ruthie Hammond, Luke Hatfield, Naomi Herlong, Colbie Hodson, Josh Holmes, Leslie Jackson, Truman Massey, Gillian O'Gorman, Lindy O'Sullivan, and Landon Wilson; and

 

Whereas, the team was led by teacher coaches, Dr. Patricia Moseley and Ruth Bledsoe, and attorney coach, Blair Massey; and

 

Whereas, the South Carolina Bar Middle School Mock Trial Program is a hands-on exercise in learning about due process. It is a team activity that is most often conducted as an extracurricular activity, but can also be incorporated into law, forensics or public speaking classes. Private schools, home school groups and community groups are welcome and encouraged to participate; and

 

Whereas, students representing attorneys and witnesses for both sides of a fictional case role play that case being tried in court. The students are guided in their case through the support of their teacher and attorney coaches. The program teaches the legal process and trial procedure; and

 

Whereas, by incorporating mock trial in middle schools, students can learn about the basis of our American judicial system and the mechanics of litigation. In addition, students are encouraged to learn and understand the meaning of good citizenship in a democracy. Mock trial encourages participation, critical thinking, speaking skills, and teamwork. The South Carolina Bar Mock Trial program also serves to increase cooperation, respect and support between the community and the legal profession in the State; and

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate greatly appreciate the dedication and commitment that the JET Middle School Mock Trial Team has shown in serving the people and the State of South Carolina.  Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the Senate:

 

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, recognize and honor the JET Middle School Mock Trial Team for winning the 2025 Middle School Mock Trial State Championship.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the JET Middle School Mock Trial Team.

----XX----