8th grade students attended a special session with three local lawyers who volunteered their time to share real-life legal knowledge. Kristin Kass, Hank McRoberts, and Grant Carlson spent time with the 8th grade class in order to prepare them for a mock trial that will take place after the new year. This will happen once the students finish reading The Outsiders. Students asked questions about courtroom procedures, making arguments, and what it takes to build a strong case.

One of the highlights of the visit was the small-group time some students spent with the 3 lawyers. Acting as “eighth grade lawyers,” students learned about questioning, effective speaking techniques, and were able to pick up real “tricks of the trade,” such as how to stay calm under pressure and how to make arguments clear and convincing. The experience gave students confidence and practical skills they will use in their upcoming mock trial.