Tucson Region

Volunteer thrives assisting students

For Susan Shetter teaching students the ways of the judicial system translates into life lessons that apply beyond courtroom walls. Shetter, 57, has volunteered as coach of a mock trial team at University High School for 10 years. This year's team won a state tournament and is headed to a national competition in May. But for the local public defender, working with children has always been one of her passions. Before becoming an lawyer, Shetter worked as a high school speech teacher. "I really enjoy working with the kids," Shetter said. "They're so bright and motivated." Shetter and fellow volunteer coach Jan Wezelman spend several hours each week going over the rules of evidence and working cases with the team. "They're learning lawyerly skills," Shetter said. "They learn that there are two sides to every issue." Besides students learning about the legal system, the lessons Shetter teaches also apply to life, Wezelman said. "She's very good at teaching the rule that the more you put into it the more you get out of it," said Wezelman, a Tucson attorney. The competition involves teams of students playing roles in a mock trial. Students learn poise and how to speak in public, Shetter said. They also learn how to think on their feet. Shetter tries to teach students the policies and reasons behind the law so that they can have a better understanding as citizens. What is remarkable is how well Shetter can relate complex topics in ways students understand, Wezelman said. Mock trial allows for plenty of fun though, as students are graded on their courtroom knowledge as well as their ability to play a character. "We do have fun," Shetter said. As the trip to the national competition in Charlotte, N.C., comes closer, Shetter and Wezelman are spending more time with the students, working on a new case. Shetter said it's rewarding to see the growth they undergo throughout the process. "It's really interesting to see them grow up and mature," she said.