Eighth grade English students in Mrs. Brown’s class concluded their Horror Unit with an engaging mock trial inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s The Tell-Tale Heart. Stepping into character roles from the story, students worked to determine the fate of the narrator accused of murdering the Old Man. The experience felt especially authentic thanks to local lawyer and parent Mr. Wentworth, who served as the judge for the courtroom-style lesson. Seniors participated as the jury, adding a meaningful full-circle element, as many of them remembered taking part in the same activity when they were in middle school. Held on Halloween, the trial included a few festive costumes, but students remained focused and committed to their roles throughout the proceedings. With thoughtful arguments presented on both sides, the trial ultimately ended in a hung jury. Thank you to Mrs. Brown for coordinating this creative learning opportunity, to our seniors for serving as the jury, and to Mr. Wentworth and Deputy Smith for helping make the experience both educational and memorable.