group photo of students and school board members at recent meetingPrince William County Public Schools students continued their tradition of excellence this year with a strong showing at the 48th Annual Virginia Supreme Court Model Judiciary Program Supreme Court Round. The event, held recently in Richmond, is part of the Virginia Youth Civics and Leadership Program, which provides students with authentic, high-impact civic learning experiences that mirror real-world legal practice.

The Supreme Court Round represents the culminating phase of the Virginia Supreme Court Model Judiciary Program, offering students an advanced appellate advocacy experience that closely resembles proceedings in an actual courtroom. Participants argued a simulated appeal grounded in real Virginia and federal case law, following true appellate procedure before an accomplished panel of judges from the Virginia judiciary.

Three PWCS students were recognized as winners at the Supreme Court Round:

  • Best Orator Award: Neela Harooni, Patriot High School
  • Best Appellant Award and Best Overall Team Award: Sakshi Gowda and Ethan Marco, Battlefield High School

Their success reflects the strength of the Model Judiciary Program and its impact on student learning.

“The Model Judiciary Program exemplifies inclusive, high-impact learning by engaging students through authentic, challenging work that values every voice,” said Randi Warren, district program sponsor and social studies teacher at Patriot High School. “By placing students in real-world roles and holding them to professional standards, the program deepens critical thinking, builds confidence, and demonstrates that rigorous civic learning is accessible and meaningful for all students.”

Each student demonstrated a deep understanding of the trial record and relevant legal precedent while responding thoughtfully to rigorous questioning from the judicial panel.

“The Model Judiciary Program gives students an amazing opportunity to participate and engage in learning about law through hands-on experience,” said Harooni. “It helped me, along with many other students, discover our interest in law and inspired us to pursue it in the future.”

This year’s case stemmed from a first-degree murder trial, and students were tasked with addressing complex constitutional questions. During arguments, they were frequently interrupted by judges’ queries, requiring clear, concise, and well-supported responses under pressure.  

Students earned their place at the Supreme Court Round through a competitive selection process. They first argued the case locally at the Prince William Courthouse and then advanced to represent the district at the state competition. In preparation, students worked for months alongside their sponsors, teachers, and volunteer attorneys, refining their legal analysis, oral advocacy skills, and courtroom professionalism.

The experience culminated in arguments before a judicial panel that included a former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Virginia and two current judges of the Virginia Court of Appeals.

Congratulations to this year’s award winners and all participating students for their hard work.