STEAM Academy students learn about the world of law through Mock Trial

Mount Vernon STEAM Academy’s Mock Trial team finished their second year competing across Westchester County strong, placing eighth overall while gaining real-world skills, confidence and a deeper understanding of the justice system.

Mock Trial competitions challenge students to analyze legal cases prepared by the state program and argue them before real judges and legal professionals, offering an authentic courtroom experience that extends beyond the classroom.  

Senior DanaMarie Galindo, co-founder, was inspired to start the club so her and her classmates can further discover their passion for law. “I just created the club for people to actually practice their public speaking, to see if they’re actually interested in law,” she said.

The program is advised by social studies teacher Ashley Wallace, and mentored by Corporation Counsel for the City of Mount Vernon Brian G. Johnson. Mr. Johnson serves as the team's representing attorney, guiding students through case strategies, courtroom procedures and legal reasoning.

Mr. Johnson advises students and provides feedback to them before trials against other schools. Many students practice and prepare at home, while collaborating after school. Mr. Johnson was eager to mentor students, having such positive mentors throughout his career.

“I love people excited about the law and having an experience in the courtroom,” Mr. Johnson said. “This is so fulfilling for me, being able to give back. I had a lot of great mentors, and so giving back is really important for me.” 

STEAM Academy’s Mock Trial team excelled during their first preliminary round of the New York State High School Mock Trial Competition held at Westchester County Courthouse. The team opened the competition, presenting the defense side of the case. 

Defense attorneys included sophomore Vidhi Goel and seniors Zachary Cotto and Madyson Powell, while witnesses, freshman Leia Forman and sophomore Isabel Nava Ferreira, delivered testimony. Senior Tatiana Santiful served as a timekeeper, and sophomore Alana Diggs portrayed the defendant, helping bring the courtroom simulation to life.

Following their strong performance in the preliminary rounds, the team continued their impressive run, advancing into the top 16 and ultimately earning a place among the top eight teams in Westchester County. 

“I think overall the season went a lot better. You can hear and see the differences in maturity from last year first going into a courtroom,” Zachary said, “The overall court presence was different. We kind of took more control of the courtroom.”

Competing against the region's most competitive programs, students were recognized for their outstanding achievements during a ceremony at STEAM Academy with Mr. Johnson, Ms. Wallace, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Demario Strickland, and Assistant Principal Anjanette Brown.

During this, Ms. Wallace praised students for their hard work and dedication throughout the season, emphasizing her delight of seeing students develop a passion for law through the program.

“I was so happy to be their advisor and I’m very, very proud of them,” she said. “This is a wonderful group of students, and I know if I ever get in trouble, I have many lawyers.” 

Students showed their appreciation towards Mr. Johnson and all that he has done to help guide them by giving him a plaque and a thank you card to share their gratitude. 

With the season coming to an end, students are full STEAM ahead, building momentum for future competitions next year.