Speech and Debate National Tournament
Teacher: Malinda Perez
School: Macarthur High School
Amount: $1,000.00
Category: Extra-Curricular Activities
This grant sent seven incredibly bright students at Macarthur High School to represent half the state at the NSDA (National Speech and Debate Association) annual national championship in Iowa. MHS students competed (fiercely) to beat out dozens of students from all western Oklahoma schools for a select few spots during district tournaments, and several more partnered with Westmoore High School students to form a world schools invitational debate team. They raised funds to cover all the expenses to compete, but an emergency situation left them without their registration. The LPSF Board had an emergency meeting, and after considering the information they had, they provided a check to cover the fees, so the students could complete the journey they had fought to begin.
Overall, 6,700 competitors from 9 countries competed at the championship. Here is how MHS students measured up:
- Thalia Henry advanced to the top 60 in commentary speaking before elimination.
- The world schools team went up against 200 teams and finished SEVEN preliminary rounds with a 6-1 record, ranking them 22nd in the WORLD going into elimination rounds. They finished with a top 64 rank overall.
- Every other competitor advanced to elimination rounds as well.
They tore it up, honestly, and represented Lawton with pride. I, Malinda Perez, was also honored on the national stage and presented with a Diamond Coach award. It was an incredible experience; We had the BEST time and made fond memories as a team with our parents, alumni and fellow staff members. Thank you so much, LPSF. There is a video of our trip!