Debate Team Takes Bronze at Tournament

Kearney High School’s four-member debate team made their points well during the Platte County Talking Pirate Forensics Tournament last weekend.

KHS junior Amanda Tran and sophomore Izzy Kimberlin earned the top spot in the semi-finals and took third place at the tournament in the Due Interpretation competition.

Amanda Tran and Izzy Kimberlin earned the top spot in the semi-finals and took third place at the tournament

“We may not have been great in numbers, but we were strong in personality and determination!” KHS Forensics Coach Ashley Weaver said. “It was a tremendous weekend for the team! I am proud of the hard work these girls have put into preparing for the competition.”

Junior Maddy Stuart was competing in her first high school debate tournament. She made it to the semi-finals in Original Oratory and just missed finals by one point.

Junior Avery Aller competed in US Extemporaneous Speaking. In this event, students select one topic from the three provided and have 30 minutes to research and write a seven-minute speech with no notes or scripts allowed. Topics range from domestic politics, court cases, and government and social issues. Though she did not advance past the preliminary rounds, she continues to learn and build confidence in this incredibly demanding event.

KPGZ News - Ray Weikal with the Kearney School District contributed to this story