JTECHS Mock Trial Team captures 1st place at Magnolia Bar Association competition
JANS – The JPS–Tougaloo Early College High School (JTECHS) Mock Trial Program has once again proven its excellence, securing first place at the annual Magnolia Bar Association Mock Trial Competition. Competing against students from across the state, JTECHS’ victory highlights the team’s dedication, skill, and growing reputation in the mock trial community.
This year, JTECHS entered three teams in the competition, with two advancing all the way to the Championship Round – facing each other for the top honor. The winning championship team included Anna Martin, Marvin Sanders, Morgan Sanders, Ariel Bell, Makaila Nixon, and Kelsey Frazier. The second place team featured Clarissa Coleman, Nicholas Sivak, Christian Steverson, Travis Collins, Nadia Harper, and Kylie Gillion.
Individual awards also celebrated exceptional talent. Clarissa Coleman was named Top Attorney of the competition, earning a $1,100 scholarship, while Marvin Sanders received Third-Place Top Attorney honors and a $600 scholarship. Other contributing team members included Faith Malembeka, Marvin Summers, Nadia Davis, Jeremy White, Lindsey Anderson, and Kadience Tabb.
Since its inception in 2023, the JTECHS Mock Trial Program has rapidly built a legacy of success:
2023: Second Place, Magnolia Bar Mock Trial Competition
2024: Champion, Magnolia Bar Mock Trial Competition
2024: Sixth Place, Mississippi Bar Mock Trial Competition
2025: Third Place, Mississippi Bar Mock Trial Competition
2025: Champion, Magnolia Bar Mock Trial Competition
The teams are guided by Attorneys Gayla Carpenter-Sanders and Catouche Body, both proud alumni of Tougaloo College, with Felicia Burton serving as teacher and administrative coach.
With consecutive victories at the Magnolia Bar Association competition and consistent performances statewide, the JTECHS Mock Trial Program continues to demonstrate the talent, determination, and teamwork that define the school’s commitment to academic excellence.
