Johnston High School Mock Trial Teams Argue at State Competition

Two Johnston High School argued their way to the state competition at the end of March.

The competition, which was held at the new convention center in Des Moines, featured 32 teams from across the state.

The sophomore team “Guilty of Being Awesome” coached by Rachele and Joel Hjelmaas and Jeff Margolin made their second appearance at the high school level and gained valuable experience. Team members include: Lydia Sinclair, Abby Dockum, Paige Vaden, Millie Varley, John Koopal, Josh Hjelmaas, Monica Gagne, Sarah Margolin, Katie Landy, and Melinda Paszkiewicz.

Each of these students received an outstanding witness or attorney award at the district level.

The senior team “Res Ipsa Loquitur” coached since middle school by Loraine Wallace was a state finalist and received a trophy. Students include: Grant McDonald, Kaitlyn Aldrich, Sam Sparland, Taylor Mithelman, Erika Gebard, Alex Peterson, Andrew Tubbs, Chase Wallace, Anna Pierce, and Helen Lagerblade.

Many of these students have competed in Mock Trial for five years.