Speech and Debate teams from Kelly Walsh High School and Natrona County High School earned top honors with their tremendous success throughout the season. Recently, students competed at the 2023 Wind River District Speech and Debate event, the qualifying tournament where students represent and move on to compete at the Speech and Debate Association’s National Tournament.
The National Speech & Debate Association connects, supports, and inspires a diverse community committed to empowering students through speech and debate. Speech and debate programs provide opportunities for students to excel and expand their communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creative skills.
Students from Kelly Walsh High School and Natrona County High School qualified for the 2023 Speech and Debate Association’s National Tournament.
Congratulations to all Speech and Debate students on their tremendous accomplishments throughout the season!
Natrona County High School National Qualifiers:
Jack Cochran - US Extemporaneous Speaking, Big Questions Debate
Cassidy Baedke - Dramatic Interpretation
Alexis Worthen - International Extemporaneous Speaking, First Alternate in Senate
Caleigh Blain - Original Oratory
Beau Griffith - Program Oral Interpretation
Kristen Harper- 3rd Alternate in US Extemporaneous Speaking
Students breaking to Out Rounds include Quinn Casner, Kylie Downey, Aaron Worthen, Brinnan Heaton.
Congratulations to Natrona County High School Assistant Coach Jen Beagles for being named the Wind River District Assistant Coach of the Year! In addition, three excelling NCHS seniors have signed with Casper College’s Speech and Debate team with full academic scholarships. Congratulations, Jack Cochran, Cassidy Baedke, and Caleigh Blain, on this exciting achievement and your exceptional success. Natrona County High School is committed to preparing responsible and life-long learners who value themselves, contribute to society and succeed in a changing world. Catherine Kellick, NCHS Speech and Debate coach, shared her excitement in seeing the student growth and success this year, "It has been my pleasure seeing these amazing young people shine in areas they never knew possible. This team is important to so many students and families, giving them a place to belong and thrive. I am fortunate to coach such amazing minds!"
Kelly Walsh High School National Qualifiers:
Arielle Coleman - International Extemporaneous Speaking, Lincoln Douglas Debate
Kaisha Brown - Programmed Oral Interpretation, Alternate in Oratory
Leah Griffee - Alternate in Oratory
Congratulations to KWHS Speech and Debate Coach Jennifer Barella for being named the Wind River District New Coach of the Year! “We have had amazing support from our assistant coaches, Stephanie Barella and Curtis Winfrey, in developing a stable program that is committed to providing students with the opportunity to engage in critical thinking, advocacy, and continual growth,” shared Barella. Kelly Walsh High School is committed to preparing all students for their next step by creating high expectations, academic rigor, and personal responsibility.
“The Wyoming High School Forensics Association and the Wyoming High School Activities Association believe that speech, as an activity, offers an unexcelled potential for promoting the democratic ideal.” ~ Wyoming Speech and Debate Association
Congratulations, students, on your exceptional success!