Ike Students Excel in Mock Supreme Court Simulation

Students from Eisenhower High School recently had the incredible opportunity to step into the shoes of Supreme Court justices and attorneys at the William O. Douglas Federal Courthouse, participating in an authentic mock Supreme Court simulation that brought their AP U.S. Government and Politics studies to life.

Students took on the challenging task of researching and arguing the real Supreme Court case O'Connor-Ratcliff v. Garnier. For months leading up to the event, students immersed themselves in constitutional law, analyzing the constitutionality of arguments and studying cases that could serve as legal precedent. Four students prepared to serve as attorneys while nine took on the role of justices, each group dedicating countless hours to understanding the complexities of the case.

On simulation day, the courthouse became their classroom as student attorneys presented their cases to their fellow students serving as justices. After hearing the arguments, the student justices deliberated and reached their final decision. Remarkably, their conclusion matched the actual Supreme Court ruling, without any prior knowledge of what the real outcome had been.

The experience became even more special when a federal judge who was in the audience took time to answer student questions and share insights about the judicial process.

"Every one of my students did a phenomenal job," said teacher Luke Pearsons. "This experience was one of the most rewarding and exciting of my teaching career and I cannot communicate how proud I was to watch my students thrive during this event."

In reflecting on the experience, one student wrote, "This was the most fun I have had doing an assignment in my high school career.”

Throughout the entire event, Ike students demonstrated exceptional professionalism, poise, and respect. Their teacher noted what an honor it was to work with such outstanding young people, crediting their families for raising such impressive students.

This amazing educational opportunity was made possible thanks to Nancy Livingston, a local attorney who coordinated the activity with the courthouse. Her support ensured that these students could experience constitutional law in the most authentic setting possible.

The mock Supreme Court simulation represents exactly the kind of hands-on learning that prepares students for both academic success and active participation in their communities as informed citizens.

This story aligns with Goal 3 of our Strategic Plan: to provide equitable opportunity to achieve core mastery & critical thinking. To learn more about our strategic plan, visit ysd7.org/strategicplan.