DHS Student Earns Prestigious Individual Award at State Mock Trial

Your contribution today guarantees Decorah News is asking the questions tomorrow. Act now. DECORAH — The Decorah High School mock trial team is celebrating team and individual success following the Iowa High School Mock Trial State Competition, held March 30 to April 1 in Des Moines. Among more than 300 students representing 32 schools, Leah Garcia-Prats earned one of the competition's highest honors. Garcia-Prats was named Outstanding Witness, one of 15 awards presented statewide. Judges in her round selected her as the top witness, citing strong character preparation, delivery and performance under cross-examination. Decorah advanced to the state competition after placing first at a regional contest March 6 in Mason City. The team consisted of sophomores Eva Hurley, Addisyn Ivy, Breyden McCain, Matthew Burkholder, Davis Walter, Poppy Bellrichard, Gavin Carolan, Nils Peterson, Sophia McGee and Garcia-Prats. "I have been amazed at the level of commitment and dedication these students have shown to this mock trial program, from getting it going again to doing such an awesome job at both the regional and state competitions," said coach Scott Boylen. Students spent months preparing by studying case materials, learning courtroom procedures and collaborating to present polished trials. Mock trial was recently reintroduced at Decorah High School after students worked to revive the program. The team received support from several mentors, including attorneys Ray Rinkol and John Anderson, as well as Michael Engelhardt and Jenna Woodsmall, a mock trial participant at the college and high school levels. Additional high school students also volunteered as coaches and mentors. Get the inside scoop! Subscribe to the free DecorahNews.com newsletter and receive local news, expert analysis, and stories that matter most—straight to your inbox.