Home School Heartbeat Radio Program

Today on Home School Heartbeat, Michael Smith, talks with Shirley Skipper, mock trial team coach for the Southwest Home School Network. A mock trial team is just one of the many creative activities that home school groups are building for their members.

Michael Smith:


Shirley, we're seeing home school families and groups participating in so many great extracurricular activities now. Please tell our listeners the idea behind the mock trial team and how it has worked for your group.


Shirley Skipper:


Ok, we started mock trial team eight years ago to give our high school students an opportunity to take advantage of one of the most outstanding academic competitions available to them. Due to the nature of the competition they learn so much that's not measurable. Analytical thinking, problem solving, being able to think on their feet not to mention the knowledge gained about our legal and judicial system. It's like taking a rigorous law related education course. The team competes at the regional level and can advance to the state and even the national level. We've had teams advance to the state level five times in the past eight years. It requires a lot of hard work and dedication on the part of the students, parents, and the attorney advisory. But it's all worth it. I strongly suggest you get your teams involved. Contact your state coordinator and they will give you the details. Preparing for the trial begins in October and the regional competitions are usually held in February. It's a fantastic opportunity.


Michael Smith:


Thank you, Shirley! Listeners, all week here on Home School Heartbeat you can learn more about these programs being set up by home school groups across the country. Keep listening and remember that the possibilities are limitless.