Colton High School junior Thomas Lemus has been chosen to represent the Colton Joint Unified School District, San Bernardino County, and the state of California at the National High School Mock Trial Competition, which takes place May 16-18 in Athens, Georgia. This is the first time a Colton Mock Trial team member has participated at the national level.
Thomas will be competing in the courtroom artist contest. As the very best Mock Trial teams from around the country battle it out in the courtroom, Thomas will be sketching the scenes that unfold before him.
Thomas, who took second place in the state competition, said he was surprised at the invitation to nationals, which came when the first place winner was unable to participate.
Thomas is excited to travel to Georgia and have a new experience. He said his family is very excited about his accomplishments. They have encouraged him along the way. His teacher and CHS Mock Trial Advisor Lucy Leyva is extremely proud of Thomas as well. She will accompany him to Georgia next week.
“In the 25 years I’ve been at Colton High, we’ve never had the privilege to be invited to Mock Trial Nationals…until now, thanks to Thomas’ talent, creativity, and dogged perseverance. I’m so proud of him!”
The self-taught artist said the whole experience has caused him to start thinking about the future in a new way.
“Before, I knew I liked to draw, but now it’s motivating me to think differently. I’ve discovered a lot of things I never thought I was capable of.”
To learn more about the National Mock Trial Competition, visit https://athens2019.nhsmtc.org/