The new Speech and Debate Club at University View Academy (UVA) recently attended the Purple Knight Invitational speech and debate event at St. Augustine High School. Team member Victoria Ballard (10th grade) placed second in the oral interpretation category.
“I love the opportunities that speech and debate offers, with help for public speaking, meeting new people, and developing friendships,” Ballard said. “I want to major in music and minor in theatre. After college, I would like to go to Broadway and eventually become a theatre teacher. This accomplishment helps with future resumes, whether it be for college or theatre.”
Students in speech and debate participate in competitive events that develop public speaking, critical thinking, research, and argumentation skills. In speech events like oral interpretation, students prepare and perform pieces that focus on clear organization, strong evidence, vocal delivery, and effective body language to communicate ideas or tell compelling stories. Speech and debate helps students build confidence, improve communication skills, and engage thoughtfully with important issues.
“Speech and debate was my escape when I was in school,” shared UVA teacher and club sponsor Ashley Trahan. “Throughout my life, I dreamed of coaching a speech and debate team. To have Victoria place second, especially when she only had just a few weeks to prepare, I don’t even know how to put it into words other than feeling proud and thankful. UVA is entering the speech and debate arena and we are ready!”
Left to right: Victoria Ballard and Ashley Trahan
University View Academy is Louisiana’s premier tuition-free K-12 online school. We offer a flexible, personalized education choice for residents across Louisiana that is powered by state-certified teachers and supported by in-person Micro Academies.