ERHS Speech & Debate qualifies for 1st national competition

East Rutherford High Speech and Debate finalists (left to right): Quantel Petty, Kayla Webb, Olivia Parton

East Rutherford Speech and Debate made history this weekend. Quantel Petty became the first ERHS student to qualify to compete at the NSDA's (National Speech and Debate Association) National Tournament in Dallas, Texas this June. Petty qualified at the Carolina West NSDA District National Qualifying Tournament held in Charlotte, NC. Petty qualified in Dramatic Interpretation. The Duo Interpretation team of Kayla Webb and Olivia Parton were finalists in that event, placing 4th overall, and were named 2nd alternates to the national competition.

Chase High Speech and Debate also competed at the Carolina West NSDA Districts National Qualifying Tournament. Jonah Hill placed as a semi-finalist in two events, Dramatic Interpretation and Humorous Interpretation. CHS won the Cumulative Sweepstakes award for competing in the more rounds at the district competition level than any other team.