Flagstaff Arts and Leadership Academy
Flagstaff, AZ
James Lerch started coaching Mock Trial in 1989 at Prescott High School and contributed to a successful program for over six years. After spending time overseas, he returned to Arizona, and in 2016 started working at University High School in Tucson. Initially his role was as a co-coach, working with Mock Trial veterans Susan Shetter and Jan Wezelman. When they retired, he continued to coach University High teams for two additional years. During his time at University High School Mr. Lerch connected his students with expert coaches by fostering relationships with both local attorneys and University of Arizona Mock Trial team members. By the time James moved on from University High School in 2021, program membership at the school had swelled to over 40 active participants. He is now teaching at Flagstaff Arts and Leadership Academy and is looking to get a Mock Trial program started at his new school.