In conjunction with Freedom Week and Constitution Day, third-grade students at Great Bend’s Jefferson, Park, and Riley Elementary Schools participated in a virtual mock trial hosted by Olathe Public Schools. The unique learning opportunity even featured a special guest appearance from U.S. Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch and U.S. Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas.

Students were introduced to the U.S. Constitution’s core tenets and gained an overview of how the three branches of government work together. Once the mock trial began, students transitioned into the role of “jury,” carefully observing the legal process for a fictional case involving an alleged student running in the halls.

The event brought government concepts to life in a way that was both fun and meaningful, while also aligning with the Kansas History, Government, and Social Studies (HGSS) standards approved by the Kansas State Board of Education for third grade.

“This activity was important because it brought parts of our classroom learning, ‘How America Works,’ to life in a way that resonated with the students,” said Casey Hatzenbuehler, third-grade teacher at Riley Elementary. “They really enjoyed being able to deliberate after each witness during the trial and then having a say in the final verdict. Our group was split, but then a student restated a piece of evidence that supported their opinion. The students considered this and decided ‘not guilty.’ They felt like they were a true part of a system they were learning about.”

Learn more about USD 428’s Freedom Week activities by contacting the District Education Center at 620-793-1500.