By Brandon Shepard
Morristown West High’s Speech and Debate team attended the Bartlett High School and Emory University tournaments this past weekend of Jan. 29-31. With over 300 schools from across the United States, West High had plenty of competition to face off against. West High’s Speech and Debate team had a break in Oral Interpretation (Oi) by Rylee Linkous, a finalist of the Speech and Debate team. Another Forensics student, Cayden Keltgen, discusses his time at the tournament this previous weekend. “I didn’t do as well as I thought I would this time,” He said, “But it motivated me to do better and achieve my goals at the next tournament” Terry spoke out about the tournaments this year. “We are the best kept secret of West High. Most if not all seniors get a full ride to college through the Speech and Debate team and I am so proud of my students,” Terry said, “This year has been difficult, but we still love doing what we do.” Delaney Miska, a Freshman, participated in one of her first tournaments this year. Delaney showed great prowess and determination to compete as did Esmerelda Cerritos, a freshman as well. Regardless of how the tournaments go, West is still proud of the Speech and Debate Team for the determination and courage to participate.
West High is proud of Mrs. Susanne Terry for being named National Educator of the Year by the Speech and Debate Association! Terry was announced National Educator by the Association on Wednesday, Jan. 27. She was nominated by former student Ryan Hubbard, who was coached by Terry in the early 2000s. “Mrs. Terry has served her rural community and students for over thirty years as the forensics educator. As many former or current students will tell you, her impact extends far beyond the walls of Room 444” Mrs. Terry is one of the greatest educators by far and made great impacts in student’s lives. Terry exclaimed in pure joy over her achievement. “This year was a different year. The Association picked the top five out of the country and to be chosen for such an honorary achievement, to say I’m overwhelmed would be an understatement.” Once again, West High congratulates her on her acquirement!
West High is especially proud of Speech and Debate and Terry and looks forward to the coming year for the Forensics team!
