One of the fourth grade classes at Mather Elementary participated in a mock trial at the Alger County Courthouse on Wednesday, May 10. The students were able to see how the legal system worked in a controlled environment, with numerous elected officials and county law enforcement and court staff assisting in the project.

To complete the exercise, a student was facing one charge of drinking District Court Judge Charlie Nebel’s chocolate milk. An intense trial commenced, with sound arguments made by both the prosecutors and the defense teams. Students also served in investigatory and juror roles.

The defendant was found guilty of drinking Judge Nebel’s chocolate milk and was trespassed from the judge’s office. The other group of fourth graders who participated in a mock trial earlier in the school year had been found not guilty, showcasing just how different each experience can be in the legal system.

Mather Elementary staff and students thanked the officials and staff on the school district’s official Facebook page. More photos of the event are available there.