This year, Jackson Milton’s Speech team truly expanded their records and members. For the first time since the 2022-2023 season, our middle school team has returned with members Dawson Cole (Middle School Interpretation) and Ashyln McCabe (Middle School Congressional Debate). On the JM High School Team, members Kalia Morris (Dramatic Interpretation) and Miah Tomaino (Humorous Interpretation) have made their own mark.

Miah Tomaino snagged 3rd at the OSDA State Novice tournament, with the scores of one 1, four 2’s, and three 3’s. Kalia Morris has placed 3rd a total of 3 times throughout the season, 2 times in the Youngstown district and once in the Cleveland district.

Throughout the differences in age, this team has formed a bond that even losing tournaments couldn’t break.

Middle School Congressional Debater, Ashyln McCabe reflects on the season by saying, “Think critically, speak confidently,” as advice to the testament that speech and debate truly requires the utmost of confidence and integrity in those rough competitions.

The connections between the middle and high school teams have allowed practices to be fun and full of laughs while preparing for the weekends ahead. Practices were each week since the beginning of school, with tournaments attended on Saturday mornings from 8 – 2 on average. Their captain shows extreme pride for the dedications and accomplishments of the speech team, wishing they join next year to hone in their skills and talents. She is excited to see what the speech team is going to push to next and the heights the team will reach in the next few years.

Speech and Debate is a place where members are open to others and has created a family like no other in this school. Our school offers Original Oratory, Declamation, Dramatic Interpretation, Humorous Interpretation, Congressional Debate, and more!

At each tournament, points earned in categories will allow a possible win of team sweepstakes for highest points earned. If interested in this academic sport, contact Mr. Sich concerning joining our wonderful speech and debate team.

Mr.Sich claims, “I have a good feeling we’re gonna win sweeps this week,” as we all hope to allow every person who joins to be able to raise enough points to become even more well known within the speech community.

Congratulations to middle school and high school members for a great season, and we hope to see you next year!