Students of the Legal Eagles Mock Trial Club at Heyward Gibbes Middle School engaging in courtroom simulations.
The mock trial club at Heyward Gibbes Middle School, named the ‘Legal Eagles’, has made a comeback after 30 years. Under the leadership of Valerie James, this club involves 15 enthusiastic students participating in legal simulations and honing their skills. With expert mentorship, the club achieved remarkable success, advancing to the South Carolina Bar Association’s Middle School Mock Trial State Competition and winning the Professionalism and Civility Award. Valerie emphasizes the importance of kindness and respect as core values in their journey, ensuring the club fosters essential life skills.
In a delightful turn of events, the city has witnessed a spectacular revival of the mock trial club at Heyward Gibbes Middle School after a staggering 30-year hiatus. As the 2024-2025 school year unfolds, this newly revitalized club, charmingly named the “Legal Eagles”, is all set to spread its wings and soar.
Taking the reins of this invigorating initiative is Valerie James, a beloved figure at Heyward Gibbes who dedicated an impressive 41 years teaching social studies before retiring in 2022. Even though she hung up her teaching hat, her affection for the students inspired her to return as the mock trial advisor. Having previously led the club during her tenure, she is now back, bringing her wealth of experience and passion to the table.
This year, the Legal Eagles boasts an enthusiastic membership of 15 students. Together, they delve into the intricacies of the legal system, role-playing in courtroom simulations that are as educational as they are entertaining. Students have different roles to choose from, including witnesses, attorneys, timekeepers, and bailiffs. This variety allows each student to select positions that best align with their comfort levels and interests.
As students prep for their cases, they quickly realize that each role comes with its own challenges. For instance, sixth-grader Tiaunna Chisholm mentions the distinct difference in responsibilities between being a witness—which requires detailed memorization—and being an attorney, which permits the use of notes during proceedings. On the flip side, the attorney role, while possibly daunting, allows for spontaneous thinking and critical engagement—something that eighth-grader Richard Keith thoroughly enjoys.
Adding an extra layer of learning, a public defender associated with the South Carolina Bar Association volunteered weekly last semester to impart valuable insights to the club. This mentorship provides students with a real-world glimpse into the legal field, enriching their understanding of courtroom dynamics.
The hard work and dedication paid off when the Legal Eagles advanced to the prestigious South Carolina Bar Association’s Middle School Mock Trial State Competition, following their impressive performance at the Columbia Regional Competition in November 2024. The club was honored with the Professionalism and Civility Award during the state competition—a recognition voted on by fellow teams to celebrate those who exemplified the highest standards of professionalism.
Valerie James stresses the significance of kindness, a cornerstone of her teaching philosophy, and a vital component in their recent accolades. Her dedication to instilling values of respect and camaraderie in her students not only shines through in competitions but will also serve them well in the future, regardless of the career paths they may choose.
Reflecting on the program’s rich history, James fondly recalls the impact it has had on many students over the years, including one who left a lasting impression on a courtroom judge during a previous mock trial event three decades ago. This touchstone serves as a reminder of how the mock trial program can create unforgettable experiences and foster lifelong skills.
With a legacy of inspiring students and encouraging the spirit of inquiry and mentorship, the Legal Eagles are not just a club; they are a community striving for excellence. Valerie James has created an environment where students can explore their potential while learning the intricate nuances of the legal system. As the year progresses, the Legal Eagles are sure to make a lasting impact, not only in their competitions but also on the lives of the students they inspire every day.
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