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Junior‑high mock trial and Golden Girls honored at Kearney board meeting
Summary
Students from Kearney Junior High presented a three‑year mock‑trial project that included courtroom visits, student‑written cases and a 90‑minute trial simulation; the board also recognized the Golden Girls dance team for season achievements.
Kearney Junior High students presented a mock‑trial project that staff said has grown over three years into a sustained hands‑on learning experience.
Teacher and staff leads described how students researched precedents, wrote evidence and witness statements and rehearsed for a mock murder trial staged at a local courthouse. "We went to Judge O'Hara's courthouse and we learned how to go through the trial of the process of a trial," student Kira said, summarizing the field trip. Cadence Baker, an eighth‑grader who served on the prosecution team, said the actual mock trial lasted about 90 minutes and that the defense team prevailed: "In the end, the defense team won and the verdict was not guilty."
Presenters highlighted the project's emphasis on real‑world learning, collaboration and debate, noting students used AI tools as research and drafting aids rather than shortcuts. Staff praised the level of student engagement during the full‑day event.
The board also recognized the Golden Girls dance team for a successful season, including multiple competition trophies and state‑level finishes; Coach Anderson and other staff read the roster and thanked district and community supporters.
