Article by Phoenix writer Sophia Paulich ’24:
This past weekend on January 22nd and 23rd, the Kellenberg Mock Trial team competed in the University of Pennsylvania’s annual Benjamin Franklin Invitational Tournament. This year, due to COVID, this two-day competition was held virtually. The Kellenberg Mock Trial consists of 12 high school students, who are committed to the club and meet weekly to discuss, practice, and prepare for major competitions. This January, the UPenn competition had been the main focus for the team. By diligently preparing and discussing the case, the Kellenberg Mock Trial team was more than ready to succeed. Sophomore Megan Dunne states, “In this club I have established some amazing relationships with fellow students as well as teachers through the ability to collaborate and brainstorm.”
The hypothetical case was based on a murder investigation of someone who was killed by their former employee and rival in the horse racing industry. The students used the information and witness statements given to them to create a “mock trial” against other high schools. Sophomore Francesca Papetti explains, “It teaches the value of hard work and time management while still being a fun and enjoyable time to work alongside fellow students.”