DeSoto High School Speech and Debate Team Continues Winning Streak with Strong Showing at Whitehouse Thanksgiving Classic
The DeSoto High School Speech and Debate Team continues to
make its mark across the region, earning top honors at the 20th Annual
Whitehouse Thanksgiving Classic held this past weekend in Whitehouse,
Texas.
Competing against 45 schools from across the state,
the DeSoto team — led by UIL Debate Coach and UIL Academic Coordinator Judy
Nance — delivered another standout performance, extending the program’s winning
streak to 13 consecutive tournaments.
Out of a six-member team, three students earned medals
for their outstanding efforts:
- Jamar
Carden — 2nd Place, Extemporaneous Persuasive Speaking (out of
55 competitors)
- Jad’Chris
Easter — 2nd Place, Lincoln-Douglas Debate (out of 40
competitors)
- Miley
“Mallory” Wiley — 4th Place, Lincoln-Douglas Debate (out of 40
competitors)
The remaining team members also placed in the top half of
their competitive events, demonstrating the program’s consistency and depth
of talent.
Coach Nance expressed immense pride in her students’
continued success:
“Our team continues to show that hard work, preparation, and
confidence lead to success. These students represent DeSoto ISD with excellence
everywhere we go,” said Nance. “To perform this well against 45 schools is an
incredible accomplishment.”
DeSoto ISD Superintendent Dr. Usamah Rodgers praised
the team’s achievements, saying,
“The continued success of our Speech and Debate program
reflects the academic excellence and commitment to leadership we strive for
across DeSoto ISD. Coach Nance and her students embody what it means to soar as
Eagles.”
Director of Arts Twynette Anderson also highlighted
the importance of programs like Speech and Debate in shaping student growth and
achievement:
“Programs such as Speech and Debate empower our scholars to
think critically, communicate effectively, and lead confidently,” said
Anderson. “We are proud to continue offering opportunities that nurture our
students’ voices and prepare them for success both inside and beyond the
classroom.”
The DeSoto High School Speech and Debate Team will continue
preparing for upcoming UIL competitions as they build on their remarkable
record of success.