By Prescott Osuchukwu
The speech and debate team won sweepstakes at district, qualifying several students for nationals.
“I am proud that the hard work and dedication that I have put into debate this year has paid off,” sophomore Jacob Redmon said. “I am glad that as a sophomore I was able to qualify for Nationals.”
Every year the National Forensics League (now referred to as the National Speech and Debate Association) hosts a national tournament over the summer for debaters who qualify at district.
The qualifiers include seniors Berryman Toler, Sam Nohra, Nanette Elufa, Prescott Osuchukwu, Xavier Burns and sophomore Jacob Redmon. These students will be representing Texas this summer at the national tournament in Kansas.
“I am not only honored, but happy that I am given the opportunity to join many hard-working debaters and take the trophy for nationals,” senior Xavier Burns said. “I hope that the work I have put into debate as well as myself follows me throughout my journey in life.”
Toler also received recognition as student of the year in the district, an award that reflects leadership and hard work as well as tournament success over the season.
“I’m honored to win this award because I always wanted to represent those who helped me along the way as I competed,” Toler said. “I feel like the award is not just for me, but for my parents, family, teachers, coaches and teammates who encouraged me to succeed.”