May 3, 2012

Hilton's Northwood Elementary students visit court system in Greece

This month Northwood Elementary students visited the Town of Greece Courtroom Outreach Program to get an inside view of the workings of the justice system through courtroom procedure. Judge Vincent Campbell hosted the courtroom proceeding for students.

"It was an extremely worthwhile experience for our students," said Northwood REACH teacher Ed Donnelly.  "Although we did not tour the holding cell or witness waiting area behind the scenes, we enjoyed a thorough presentation by Judge Campbell and his clerk, saw several civil cases, enjoyed lunch at the town Hall where we met the Director of Constituent Services Kathryn Firkins and Supervisor John Auberger.  We then returned to Court to observe several criminal cases before returning to Northwood."

Northwood students are in the middle of “Mock Trial” unit modeled after the mock trial programs in high schools and colleges including revising and editing opening and closing statements, direct and 'cross examination questions and applying,' learning to 'object questions' and testimony that violate the rules of evidence. Students will look for mentors and judges by tapping into the expertise of Hilton High School’s Mock Trial Team led by Hilton High School teacher Mary Pignato.  

For further information, Mr. Donnelly may be reached at 585-392-1000 ext. 4552.