Locker Talkers

If you see students lining the hallway and talking to lockers, don’t be alarmed; they haven’t gone crazy. They are just practicing their speeches. With 35 members, the LHS Speech and Debate Team is at its largest in school history. Students have spent the last few weeks researching, memorizing, and practicing their presentations. The season finally kicked off this past Saturday at the Warren JFK Novice Tournament.

Sophomore Jala Beasley-Williams placed 2nd in Humorous Interpretation. She says, “I’m looking forward to making my speech grow and making it the best it can be by the end of the year.” Zach Smith placed 4th in Student Congress, Brandi Farmer placed 5th in Dramatic Interpretation, and Sierra Schneggenburger placed 5th in Expository Speaking. In addition, the debate team of Jihad Esmail and Ahmad Amireh placed 4th in Public Forum Debate. With this great start, Jihad has “high hopes for the rest of the season.” Students will continue to compete each Saturday until the end of February, so this is only the beginning. “I’m proud to be a part of our team,” Vice President Shania Warren proclaims, “and I’m excited to see the great things we can accomplish.”

LHS Speech & Debate members at the Warren John F. Kennedy High School Tournament

From left: Tiasia Shepherd, Khadejah Davidson, Shania Warren