Students can learn what it takes to be on a Mock Trial team at the Venture Academy Family of Schools (VAFS) Mock Trial Academy. Students who attend the two-day academy will learn courtroom procedures, write questions and arguments, make and argue objections in trial, perform as trial attorneys, and testify as witnesses on the stand. Students will also gain confidence as a public speaker.

This year’s case is a twist on the childhood story “Goldilocks and the Three Bears.” Students work together in teams of five to seven to write the trial, either on the side of the prosecution or the defense.

The Mock Trial Academy is being offered twice during the first full week of June to students who are currently enrolled in grades 6-8. Any student in San Joaquin County or nearby counties may attend. Cost for the academy is $60 per student and includes breakfast, lunch, snacks and a Mock Trial T-shirt. An awards ceremony will conclude the event. Training will be offered June 6 and 7, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and a second session on June 8 and 9, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The VAFS Mock Trial team recently won the San Joaquin County Mock Trial Competition, making this their fourth consecutive win and seventh regional win in nine years.

The sessions will be hosted at Venture Academy Family of Schools, 2857 Transworld Drive, Stockton. To register or for more information, contact Spencer Wright at (209) 938-8826 or at spwright@sjcoe.net. You can also visit www.ventureacademyca-mt.org.