Central program—Supreme Court Mock Appellate Argument

by | Apr 4, 2025 | LEAP, Mock Trial | 0 comments

Nearly 140 Philadelphia Central High School students gathered at the Federal Courthouse, Thursday, March 27th, to argue the fictional case of Jacob's v Bells Tower High School. A teacher at the school saw a student with his cell phone out after a test in violation of the school's zero tolerance policy regarding cell phone use in classes. The teacher took the student's phone and began searching for text messages that might show the student was cheating, but instead found what she thought were threats by the student. Using Supreme Court precedent, the students argued how the First and Fourth Amendments could be applied to decide the case.

Senior Third Circuit Judge Ted McKee headed a Supreme Court of Central students hearing arguments. Central students representing Bells Tower High School honed their presentation with PBA Director of Pro Bono Services David Keller Trevaskis, and students representing Jacob worked with U.S. Attorney Ebony Wortham.

PCSS partners, Rendell Center, and the Pennsylvania Bar Association made the educational event possible.

Three groups did the case.

One group sided with the school 9-0; two groups sided with the student 8-1.

Students argued passionately but respectfully for their position, modeling civic skills!

Also, Central High won the Statewide High School Mock Trial Competition—for the first time ever—on Saturday, March 30th. See https://www.pabar.org/site/For-the-Public/Mock-Trial-Competition.

Central program—Nice note from the program

Michael Horwits, social studies teacher, Central High School Philadelphia

Thank you very much for making the AP GOV 284 Moot Court a memorable and rewarding trip for everyone involved. Your dedication was instrumental in making this event one that created lasting memories for our students. We personally thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to make this trip a reality. Our students are greatly appreciative of all of your hard work and your assistance at Federal Court was an integral part of helping our students participate in this unique opportunity.

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