School News

SNHS mock trial

The Sioux North High School (SNHS) Grade 12 law class participated in a virtual mock trial on January 26th. The mock trial was facilitated by Level Justice, a justice education charity based out of Toronto as well as Connected North, which is an education provider that offers rich virtual programming to schools in remote communities. The students were paired with practicing lawyers and law students who volunteered their time in the weeks leading up to the mock trial to assist and provide guidance to the students. This was a great opportunity for the students to learn from experts currently working or studying in the field. 
The mock trial was based on a case that involved a youth that was being accused of the dangerous operation of a vehicle causing bodily harm. The accused was portrayed by Sophia Legary. Other witnesses were Ella Curtis, Kameron Gaudreau and McKenzie Horde. Taking the roles of Crown attorneys were Brayden Chapman-Nanokeesic, Eric Sainnawap, Jaden Lee and Calvin Chapman. The defence attorneys for the trial were Emaya van Diest, Patrick Bellerose, Kalan Cecchetto and Jessie Krahn. In the end, the jury was left with a difficult decision, but after deliberation found the accused guilty. 
The students did a tremendous job in preparing and contributing to their roles in this case. The lawyers had thorough lines of questioning and witnesses responded well when on the stand. The students received a lot of praise from the volunteers and facilitators about the professionalism and effort put into this mock trial. 
Submitted by SNHS Grade 12 law class teacher Kevin Vinczeffy