GW Law Students Mentor Stuart Hobson Middle School Students in Mock Trial Program
In a Remarkable Display of Legal Education, GW Law Students Empower Middle Schoolers for Mock Trial Program
Under the expert guidance of seven GW Law students, twenty Stuart Hobson Middle School students received intensive legal coaching to prepare them for the mock trial. Presided over by D.C. District Court Judge Jia Cobb, the problem revolved around the hypothetical case of Smith, a Duke Ellington High School junior accused of stealing a fellow student’s $700 Nikon camera. Crafted skillfully by Kate Weisburd, an associate professor of law, and Ty Alper, a law professor at the University of California, Berkeley, the case provided a challenging and immersive experience.
To ensure a comprehensive understanding of trial proceedings, Weisburd and her team of GW Law students made weekly visits to Stuart Hobson Middle School in northeast D.C. Students eagerly learned the art of constructing persuasive opening and closing arguments and adequate witness examination. The program aimed to instill analytical, writing, public speaking, and teamwork skills in the young participants. Weisburd expressed her satisfaction with the student's progress, stating, "This trial marks the culmination of months of hard work by the students." Having previously taught mock trial programs to fifth graders, Weisburd tailored the program for middle school students by introducing additional witnesses and a more complex fictional case. She intends to make the program an annual fixture at Stuart Hobson Middle School, adapting it to match the evolving skill set of the students.
Witnessing the impact of the coaching program extended beyond the trial itself, Kaitlyn Iwanowski, a third-year law student, shared her passion for mock tests after participating in similar activities during high school and college. She expressed joy in seeing others develop a fondness for the legal process, stating, "It felt really good to see other people fall in love with it as I did." Grace Hong, another third-year law student, found the growth and increased confidence of the middle school students, particularly rewarding. Over time, their skills and self-assurance flourished, leading Hong to comment, "But today, I feel like they just grew a lot."
The collaboration between GW Law students and Stuart Hobson Middle School exemplifies the power of mentorship and education in shaping young minds and fostering valuable skills. By introducing middle school students to the intricacies of the legal profession, the program sparked interest, and e. It provided them with a solid foundation for future academic and professional pursuits. As the mock trial program concludes, the dedication and efforts of the GW Law students, under the guidance of Kate Weisburd, have undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the participating middle school students. Through their commitment to teaching, inspiring, and empowering, the GW Law students have paved the way for a brighter future for these aspiring legal minds.
