The Mock Trial Turned Muse: Students Tackle Cyberbullying and Discover New Law Careers

Attorney Heidi Dudderar (left) advises the ITA defense team from Phineas Banning High School during ITEP’s 2nd Annual Law Day.

15 students from Phineas Banning High School’s International Trade Academy (ITA) received a day-long crash course in the U.S. judicial system and explored various careers in the legal profession during ITEP’s 2nd Annual Law Day.  From the comfort of the 14^th floor of the Keesal Young and Logan, our young attorneys-for-the-day fiercely debated the legal ramifications of cyberbullying in the case of Billings vs. Pearson.

“There are so many things that can be argued in a case,” said Carlos. The ITA junior spoke shyly, but with new confidence and curiosity about the legal process.

His fictional client, Cathy Jean Pearson (Aka “the bully”), was free to go—the verdict came back as a hung jury.

ITA students step into the Keesal Young and Logan library to discuss case notes and prepare for cross examinations.

Minutes prior, we had observed Carlos, writing feverishly on his notepad as the plaintiff and defense team participated in direct and cross-examination. The intensity of hands-on learning had momentarily stripped away his shyness.

On the plaintiff’s side, things were a bit somber. The team was not able to secure a win for their client, but they did gain valuable experience making persuasive arguments. They also set the bar higher for next year, noting they wanted to try a criminal case and use props – a robe and gavel for the acting judge. The 2014 Law Day was in the works, and all the adults in the room smiled approvingly.

The firm’s dining hall transforms into a courtroom for ITEP’s 2013 Law Day.

“It was a lot of fun today – I liked it,” said Sam, another ITA junior who testified as a witness for the plaintiff’s side. However, he made a confession to us before boarding his bus. “I was looking forward to arguing, but I was a witness… I like arguing… I wanted to prove my point.”  Next year, Sam!

Everyone played a role in the mock trial, from court reporter to case witness to attorney, and after all the “scary” parts (talking, presenting and cross examinations) were over, students exchanged constructive criticism and a shared few laughs with the real-life attorneys, their teachers for the day.

“…They are expected to pick up a process and a way of thinking that attorneys work on their entire life, and they’re expected to do it in six hours, and many of them wow me every single time because they just do it! It’s amazing,” said Jennifer Meeker, ITA advisory board member and attorney for Nossaman.

ITA students discuss mock trial details while the jury deliberates.

If a mock trial during a Saturday can engage a young mind and awaken a student’s full potential, imagine what other elements are left to be uncovered? Even if we just skimmed the surface of future dream careers, the results are nothing short of inspirational.

“I learned how much work lawyers have to do. It’s a lot of work… but having the experience today, it made me actually consider a future in law – it’s interesting,” said Carlos.

“My dream is to go to USC – that’d be a dream.” The junior also spoke about his interest in civil engineering and architecture.

Encouraging Carlos to dream big is the key to ensuring a bright future –both his own and that of his community.  Giving Carlos and his classmates the opportunity to explore their dreams through hands-on experiences such as Law Day is ITEP’s mission and our daily delight.

Our hard-working team! Left to right: Attorney Heidi Dudderar, Attorney Jennifer Meeker from Nossaman LLP, Attorney Lisa Barnett from A. Lavar Tayor Law Offices and Susie Emami, ITEP Program Manager.

We are extremely grateful for the guidance and support of Jennifer Meeker from Nossaman LLP, Lisa Barnett from A. Lavar Tayor Law Offices and Heidi Dudderar. Thank you, ladies! You made the 2nd Annual ITEP Law Day special and successful. We’d also like to recognize our gracious host, Keesal Young and Logan for lending their offices, staff and catering services. 

Earth Day 2013: More Than Just One Day for San Pedro Students

San Pedro High School students from the Global Environmental Studies / Earth Alert Academy (SPEA) united their peers and friends to give Mother Earth not just one Earth Day, but two! The Annual SPEA Earth Day Celebration began with a green clean-up event on Saturday, April 20, 2013 thanks to our new partner, All Green Recycling. With the company’s incredible support, more than 25 high student volunteers and teachers organized the 4th Annual SPEA E-Waste Recycling Fundraiser. Not only did SPEA students reduce their carbon footprints in the South Bay, but also raised $533 for academy expenses.

So was Earth Day Part One successful? You tell us…

SPEA diverted over 8,000 lbs. of total electronics from entering landfills and prevented 11,576 lbs. of carbon emissions from polluting the atmosphere. This is equivalent to 446 trees saved, 1,964 gallons of gasoline, 16,777 plastic bottles recycled, and 77,175 aluminum cans recycled.

SPEA students and volunteers help out during the 2013 E-Waste Recycling Fundraiser at San Pedro High School, made possible by All Green Recycling.

Part two of the celebration began on Monday, April 22^nd and transformed San Pedro High School into an interactive center for green careers. Over 700 students attended on-campus presentations put together by 16 of our industry partners from Bird Rescue, Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, DWP, US Coast Guard and the West Basin Container Terminal, just to name a few. The presentations introduced students to local and global careers in environmental management, safety, response and rescue.

SPEA Advisory Board Chair and Cabrillo Marine Aquarium Director, Mike Schaadt, shares a prop which demonstrates the large offspring of a BOFFFF (Big Old Fat Fecund Female Fish).

“I liked all the presenters and Cabrillo Marine Aquarium presentations the most. I learned that we can all help the Earth by going to beach cleanups and similar activities,” said Giselle, SPEA student.

“I liked the presentations because they helped give us an idea of different career options we can take – that was helpful,” stated Chris, San Pedro High School junior.

Los Angeles Department of Water and Power representatives discuss the wastewater treatment and water reclamation process.

Our presenters also enjoyed their classroom time with San Pedro students.

“Talking about the things that they can do – it was a bit of an A-ha moment for the students. They realize that what they do and that one person can make a difference,” said Jeff Greg, Marine Science Technician for the US Coast Guard.

Dr. Kiersten Darrow, Research Curator for the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium used her time with the students to discuss grunion hatching and opportunities within the Marine Aquarium such as internships, volunteer opportunities, beach cleanups, and other community service projects.

“Again, it’s the connection. It’s nice that they see us in their classrooms – they know that we want them in particular,” said Dr. Darrow.

Ports America employees lead the class in a mock Jeopardy game.

Meanwhile on the other side of campus, Ports America formed student teams in an engaging mock Jeopardy game filled with environmental topics and fun facts.

“It’s important for companies like ours to be here… it gives the students an opportunity to engage and relate with professionals within an industry that’s right down the street from… and it gives them the opportunity to ask us questions and see what we do,” said Christina Boden, Regional Safety Manager for Ports America.

From clean-up to career exploration, SPEA students turned an ordinary Earth Day celebration into a two-day event that will have long-term, positive effects on the planet and the ambitions of our youth.

A few of our amazing Earth Day presenters and ITEP supporters.

Your Investments and a New Future

Arturo Alcazar, 2013 Carol Rowen 180 Degree Award Winner from Barstow High School, Mojave XP Academy.

It’s three o’clock on a March 20th afternoon and the venue for our 13th Annual Scholarship is half full. The female students retouch their hair and make-up during quick restroom breaks. They hurry back to the dinner floor to place the finishing touches on their academy booths. Table centerpieces created by dinner’s host academy, ITA are positioned neatly between the condiments and table settings placed by MATCH students. Meanwhile, the boys in pressed dress shirts and coordinated ties assist with the “heavy lifting.” To the right of the stage, a GBAC student steams out the last wrinkles found on the Oh Snap! photo booth drapes. By four o’clock, new navy blue polo’s spring up in the middle of the floor. Our new ITEP students, Exploring Careers in Long Beach (from Cabrillo High School) arrive. All students were dressed for the dinner of their high school lives – the “interview” with that future boss and mentor is less than two hours away.

From left to right: Oscar Reyes (MATCH Academy), ITEP Scholarship Recipient. Carson High GBA students meet Marilyn Roth, ITEP Board Member. Diana Medel (GESA Academy), Martin D. Chavez Scholarship Recipient.

Over 620 of our friends, students and supporters joined us at our 13th Annual Scholarship Dinner, “Investing in Our Youth” at the World Cruise Center in San Pedro. The biggest celebration in ITEP history lasted 3 1/2 hours and yet, so much took place.

Over 260 ITEP students came to face with future mirror images of themselves – the transportation executive, public official, business owner and philanthropist. On the other side of the guest list, over 350 trade, transportation and logistics professionals shook hands and conversed with their investment, our ITEP students. Guests senses were amplified with firm hand shakes, the knotting of a scholarship recipient’s tie by a sponsor, the nervous student voice at the beginning of a practice speech and a family-style meal prepared and served by MATCH Academy students.

Clockwise: Soren Nielsen (Dachser Transport) talks with an ECLB student from Cabrillo High School. MATCH student begins to serve dinner guests. ITEP students pose with Amy Grat, ITEP CEO, Cynthia Ruiz, Deputy Executive Director of External Relations for the Port of Los Angeles and Mario Bermudez, President of Figueroa Capital Group.

Behind each adult presenter and speaker stood a rising student and star. One of our dinner VIPs, Los Angeles City Councilman, Joe Buscaino introduced our first student speaker, Maria Navarro. Maria shyly approached the stage. Her petite frame let out a firm tone and in between bright smiles, she won the cheers of her academy (GESA) and the crowd – she had nailed it and the celebration had begun. Our 8 ITEP scholarship recipients followed. Their faces were happy and anxious in the limelight. Then came our LA Air Cargo Association Scholar, Silvia Cardona of ITA, FTA/LAFFCBA Scholar, Ruby Silva of GBAC and HAIC Scholar, Ruth Lopez of GSS.

Clockwise: Maria Navaro (GESA), “Invest in Youth” student speaker poses with John Howland, ITEP Board Member and Dinner Chair from Cerrell Associates. Diana Jauregui (ITA), “Think Globally Earn Locally” student speaker. LA City Councilman Joe Buscaino addresses dinner guests.

Suddenly, with hands filled with certificates it all became real. ITEP students took their seats feeling different – they were scholarship recipients, winners, and future college students. Soon after, the spirit of a “Toro” filled the room. The Chavez family took the stage and accepted the 2013 Bill Stein Memorial Leadership Award on behalf of the late CSUDH alum and Port of Los Angeles employee, Martin D. Chavez. Behind them stood a memorable photo of Martin. His spirit was present as we presented three new Martin D. Chavez scholarships.

Family members of Martin D. Chavez take the stage to accept his Bill Stein Memorial Leadership Award.

Then came the night’s “it” moment: the standing ovation received by Arturo Alcazar, our Carol Rowen 180 Degree Award from Barstow High School. With inspiration at a new high, Tom Good from Matson took the stage to introduce the last student speaker and scholarship recipients: Diana Jauregui from ITA (our last student speaker), Nguyen Pham from GGLA, Paola Aguirre from ITA and Viviana Vela from GESA. All 4 students received Matson Scholarships, the first four of a three-year commitment from this extraordinary shipping line.

Arturo returned to the stage to introduce our “Educator of the Year” and his principal, Derrick Delton. Happy tears were seen across the room as Derrick delivered his speech. Barstow High School came out a winner!

Barstow High School Principal, Derrick Delton speaks to dinner guests after accepting the ITEP 2013 “Educator of the Year” award.

To close the night, Tesoro, our 2013 “Keeper of the Flame” awardee sent Dan Carlson, Vice President of Marketing and Refining, to the stage to become the night’s advocate for ITEP and our youth. Thank you, Tesoro!

“We are proud to not only be sponsors but also partners of the ITEP programs. Being partners of an educational program that emphasizes the importance of skills and educational demands in our industry sector gives students the preparation and exposure to endless possibilities in careers that are not only viable, good paying but also transferable to many sectors. For this reason we are not only excited to be partners but also appreciative for the recognition,” stated Brissa Sotelo, External Affairs Manager of Tesoro.

To our supporters and sponsors, we thank you for investing in our students and ITEP. Your generosity made an ordinary school night special. Masters and protégés met, college and career dreams emerged while others were solidified. The journey for many is just beginning.

To view more 2013 Scholarship Dinner Photos, please visit the ITEP Facebook Page here.

To our 2013 ITEP Scholarship Dinner Sponsors…
A heartfelt thanks to all for your immense generosity!

To our 2013 Scholarship Recipients, congratulations to all of you. You have made ITEP and your community proud!

 

Delivering Goods and Dreams: SWAG Explores Careers in Transportation

View of the ICTF (Intermodal Container Transfer Facility) at Union Pacific Railroad in Long Beach, CA.

A trip on the big, yellow school bus took SWAG (Students with Ambitious Goals) participants from Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo High School through an adventure in the world of transportation and logistics. Could freight be fascinating? Both students and teachers thought so. The SWAG group divided into two small groups and began their two separate journeys on a chilly, Tuesday afternoon. The first group was dropped off at TTS-I (Total Transportation Services, Inc.) in Rancho Dominguez, CA. The second SWAG group visited Union Pacific Railroad in Long Beach, CA.

“It was cool because you see everything that comes with getting things transported across the US,” stated Regina, Cabrillo High sophomore and SWAG participant. Regina hopes to major in engineering, specifically sound engineering. She admits that although the trip didn’t directly relate to her desired major, it gave her plenty to think about.

“The SWAG program helps me with engineering. By looking at many areas, it gives me more ideas about what I want to be in the future,” stated Regina. “Everything is hands on and it’s self-motivating. If you want it, you go for it.”

At TTS-I, students and staff were given a warm welcome by Tony Williamson, Director of Business Development and Marketing and Timothy Watts, Director of Warehouse Operations and the group’s official tour guide.

SWAG participants and teachers from Cabrillo High School view TTS-I’s new zero emission, hydrogen-powered truck.

The first stop included a view inside the company’s new zero emission, hydrogen-powered truck. The SWAG group was able to see and feel the inside of the truck and its instrumental panel. Over 100 of these “green” trucks are expected to hit the highways of Los Angeles (CA) and Houston (TX) by the end of the 2014.

The group then enjoyed a tour of an NEC Logistics warehouse where they viewed a variety of products – paper cups, molasses, glitter toy balls and shoes. “The kids and teachers were very engaged during the warehouse tour because they were able to witness the flow of freight in the US,” stated, Tony Williamson. “72 percent of freight in the US comes through the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles – these are the gateway to the nation.” As for TTS-I, the campus sees close to 200,000 shipments every year from locations worldwide.

SWAG participants and Cabrillo High Schools teachers explore an NEC Logistics warehouse.

The last stops included a visit to dock where trucks are loaded and unloaded continuously, and a view of the TTS-I yard or “parking lot” for all company trucks. The tour completed with a hearty lunch and plenty of TTS-I swag to go around.

“Many students are not aware of the possible jobs/careers out there. By going on trips like this, they get a better understanding of how the world works and have more jobs/majors in college to consider. The amount of steps that it requires for something to get from the factory/farm to our shelves is amazing. The biggest impact for me was the incredible amount of coordination that is required between the different parties at each step,” stated Cabrillo High School teacher, Chelsea McCormick.

Over at Union Pacific Railroad, Cabrillo High sophomores met Andy Perez, the company’s Director of Port Affairs Corporate Relations. After enjoying pizza and refreshments, the SWAG group caught a bird’s eye view of the company’s ICTF (Intermodal Container Transfer Facility). Every day, containers are transported from the ports and taken to this facility. From here, the containers are double-stacked and await their journey via train through the Alameda Corridor and to various destinations in the US.

The SWAG group also traveled to the company’s tower – “the control room” for Union Pacific where they met the hard-working team that controls and monitors the items that come into Union Pacific 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The field trip sparked the curiosity of Brenda, another SWAG participant and aspiring lawyer.

“It gets me thinking about becoming a lawyer in this industry. I can benefit from all this later,” stated Brenda. This young sophomore is dreaming big and thinking big as well.

“The whole reason for being a lawyer is to help those that cannot be helped. I’m the first one (in my family) to go to college, so it’s my responsibility to assist others so that they give back. I started from scratch so I have to set the bar higher for others.”

It’s amazing what a field trip and freight can stir within the minds of young adults. They truly have swag and represent SWAG in the best way. We would like to send a huge “thank you” to our supporters and partners for making another great outing possible.

Now it’s time to plan the next field trip which will introduce SWAG to careers in building trades. Our gracious host will be the IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers). Stay tuned!