• Mock trial team in front of court house

    New Paltz High School Mock Trial Team Shines in Statewide Competitions

     

    New Paltz, NY – The New Paltz High School (NPHS) Mock Trial Team has achieved remarkable success this year, making school history with their outstanding performance in a series of competitive tournaments. Their journey began with a victory at the County tournament in April, where they defeated their long-time rival, Mount Academy. Just three days later, the team continued their winning streak by securing first place at the Regional tournament.

     

    A challenging all-day event, the Regional tournament featured three rounds of intense competition against County Champions from Westchester, Orange, Rockland, and Ulster. Despite the challenge of having only six out of eleven team members available due to a conflicting NYSSMA event, the NPHS team emerged victorious, showcasing their resilience and skill.

     

    On May 20, the team traveled to Albany for the prestigious New York State High School Mock Trial Finals. Competing against the top eight regional champions from across the state – a pool initially comprising 350 teams – the NPHS Mock Trial Team finished in an impressive third place. The top three teams, including New Paltz, remained undefeated in the first two rounds, highlighting the fierce level of competition.

     

    The students' remarkable achievement marks the first time in NPHS history that the team has advanced to the state level. The team members are thrilled with their accomplishment and appreciative of the support they have received from their school and community.

     

    Team Members:

    - Aurora Gerber, Captain (Grade 12)

    - Gabe Cook (Grade 12)

    - Josh Quinn (Grade 11)

    - Isabel Loyer (Grade 11)

    - Jiho Son (Grade 11)

    - Charles DePoala (Grade 11)

    - Emily Bishop (Grade 11)

    - Olivia Lathrop (Grade 10)

    - Bailey Kane (Grade 10)

    - Samuel DePoala (Grade 10)

    - Sasha St. Louis (Grade 10)

    - Jon Simonson, Attorney Advisor

    - Albert Cook, Social Studies teacher

     

    "We are incredibly proud of our Mock Trial team's dedication, hard work, and achievements this year," said Superintendent Stephen Gratto. "Their success is a testament to their skill, determination, and the strong support from their families and school community."