With a half dozen members already, the Speech and Debate team is an academic program that allows students to compete in various events, from broadcasting news to reciting famous speeches and performing skits.
“It’s not just about debating the issues,” English and journalism teacher Bobbi Buchanan said. “There are opportunities for students to give both original and famous speeches, as well as perform dramatically.”
Buchanan, who participated in Speech and Debate while attending BC in the ‘80s, said event categories also include storytelling, prose, poetry, and duet acting.
Buchanan and history teacher Lexie Gilley are the Speech and Debate co-sponsors and will be in charge of coaching students.
“Right now, we’re still figuring out the event categories, and what events students are interested in trying out,” Buchanan said.
Gilley is working with Hebron Speech and Debate Coach Woody Zorn to coordinate a scrimmage later this spring.
She said that “ It would give students a chance to try multiple things and get feedback from experienced students, and maybe give them a chance to make some new friends too! We definitely want students to feel comfortable and confident and those things are built with time and practice.”
“Hopefully debate and speech help me talk more and voice my opinions.” said freshman Cheyenne Sanders.
Some look to the future job market, Sanders said, “I hope being in here helps me get a job in the future.”
“I hope it helps me prepare for speeches if I have to do many in the future,” said freshman Izzy Gabehart . I also know speech and debate looks good on college applications, and I hope it helps me.”
“It benefits me by getting me out of the house and my shell, which helps me make friends, and my trouble with speaking as well.” Gabehart added.
Coaches Bobbie Buchanan and Lexie Gilley offer one-on-one coaching every Wednesday from 2:15 to 3:15. And also have Club Day A at BC during school hours.
They’re mixing things up, with Buchanan noting, “We’re teaming up with Mr. Zorn for scrimmage practice with area schools.”
Preparing for events, their goal is success and a supportive atmosphere. More students are encouraged to join.
