image of seal of the State of Texas from courtroom


McKinney, Texas — “Almost every year, one of those first-time judges will come up to me and say, I can’t believe these kids are only 8th graders,” commented Dale Rose, Mock Trial Coordinator.

On February 23 and 24, McKinney ISD 8th Grade Gifted & Talented English classes participated in the annual Mock Trial that takes place at the McKinney Collin County Courthouse. The Mock Trial is a two-day event that consists of 15 McKinney ISD teams as well as teams from other districts.

Congratulations to the individual Mock Trial award winners!

From Cockrill Middle School (Julia Ramirez, teacher):

  • Attorney Award: Reese Williams

  • Witness: Hugues DeGaalon

From Dowell Middle School (Amanda Robinson, teacher):

Round 1:

  • Best Attorney: Caroline Reid

  • Best Witness: Eli Way and Drake Syverson

Round 2:

  • Best Attorney: Zaida Henderson, Thomas Clements

  • Best Witness: Smith Shull

Round 3:

  • Best Attorney: Zaida Henderson

  • Best Witness: Smith Shull, Eric Vandendool

From Evans Middle School (Terry Lanier, teacher):

  • Best attorney: Ruby Smith (x2)

  • Best witnesses: Finley Benson, Abby Thurman, Domingo Lopez, Madeleine Littwin