As those involved in the mock trial program know, most of our students do not go on to study law. Yet they all find the skills that they develop to be useful in whatever career path they choose, whether they become doctors, entrepreneurs…or actors! Keep reading for an exciting update on a former “mocker” at Asheboro High School. – Sue Johnson
By Darren Allen, Esq.
A little over five years ago, Elizabeth Lail played the role of nuclear protester Pat Rodgers while competing in the North Carolina High School Mock Trial Competition. On Sunday, Sept. 28, she took her acting career to a new level as a star in the ABC drama “Once Upon a Time.”
Elizabeth started her high school career at Asheboro High School. For two years, Elizabeth was a member of the mock trial team coached by Steve Schmidly and Brooke Schmidly. During the 2008-2009 year, the case dealt with a nuclear war protestor suing a security guard for excessive use of force. On the plaintiff’s side, Elizabeth used her acting talent to play the role of the plaintiff. On the defense side, Elizabeth was an attorney with an opening statement. Elizabeth’s team won the Winston-Salem Regional, and then competed at the State Championship Tournament in Charlotte.
While in high school, Elizabeth displayed her acting skills not just in mock trial, but also in several school dramas. In 2009, Elizabeth was accepted into the highly selective acting program at the North Carolina School of the Arts. There, she graduated high school. She later received her Bachelor in Fine Arts from the School of the Arts in 2014.
Within months of her graduation, Elizabeth secured a role on the highly acclaimed ABC drama, “Once Upon a Time.” The drama transports familiar Disney characters into the fictional town of Storybrooke, Maine, stripped of their memories. Elizabeth has been cast as “Frozen” character Anna.
The season premiere of “Once Upon a Time” aired on ABC on Sunday, September 28 at 8:00 PM.
Congratulations to Elizabeth and all of our other former mock trial students who have gone on to achieve success! We are proud of you!
