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Six Parker School students and one from Kohala High School have qualified for the state speech and debate championships.

Parker School recently hosted 250 students, coaches and judges for the largest speech and debate tournament in the state. 

The Hawaii Speech League Neighbor Island Tournament was the first of three qualifying tournaments where students are able to earn a spot in the speech ans debate state championships. 

The Big Island District speech and debate tournaments are in March and the state championships are in April on Oahu.

The three debate topics covered issues regarding government regulation of the automotive industry, felons’ right to vote, and alternative energy incentives. 

“Competitive debate experience gives people the confidence to speak their minds, the ability to weigh evidence and the flexibility to work as part of a team,” Parker School headmaster Carl Sturges said. “It also encourages people to see both sides of an issue, which is critical if we are to communicate with those whose views are different from our own.” 

The overall sweepstakes winner of the tournament was Kamehameha School, with 50 total wins and 13 students qualifying for the state championships. 

Of the 39 students who were qualified for the state championships, six are from Parker: Cara Nair, Sierra Mankar, Lindsey Appleton, Zen Kuriyama, Briana Boche, Victoria Andrade-McKeehan.  Josh Adams of Kohala High School also qualified for the state tournament.

— Find out more:

Parker School: www.parkerschool.net