Inaugural Eastport-South Manor mock trial team reaches county semifinals, advances to regional final four

Eastport-South Manor's newly formed mock trial team advanced to the semifinals in its first season and then to the regional final four, coaches and department leaders told the board on April 9.

"This accomplishment exemplifies the holistic essence of education," Dr. Passalt, director of social studies, said as he introduced the team and thanked staff and community mentors. Michael Biggs, who coaches the mock trial team, described the group's rapid progress: despite no prior program or formal training, the team prepared for months and earned a fourth-place seeding out of 32 Suffolk County teams, Biggs said.

Biggs credited attorney Gabrielle Berner (referred to in the meeting as "Gabby Burner") for mentorship and said the team built skills in advocacy, courtroom procedure and public speaking. Several students named during the presentation included Angelina Sankar, Ayla Tumbarello, Amaya Agudo, Kelly Langa, Sarah Madula, Sarah Isaac, Lucille Romaine and Pasha Ray.

Why it matters: The team's progress is notable because it was the district's first mock trial team and, according to the presentation, the first team in over a decade from the district to reach that stage of county competition. Participants gained internships and contacts through the Suffolk County Bar Association, the presenters said.

Next steps: Administrators and the board applauded the students and coaches. The presenters encouraged continued community support and noted the foundation is in place for the program to expand next year as juniors step into leadership roles.