Joliet Central Students Advance to IHSA Speech Sectionals At Morris High School This Weekend

JOLIET, IL — Joliet Central High School speech students are advancing to the IHSA Speech Sectionals following their performances at the regional competition last Saturday. Four students from Joliet Central will compete for a chance to qualify for the IHSA State Championships in Peoria.

Senior Aida Valdovinos, juniors Ayanna Jackson and Mia Buss, and freshman Coriana Kelly are set to compete. The sectional event will take place on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Morris High School.

Ayanna Jackson and Coriana Kelly secured the regional championship in Dramatic Duet Acting. Kelly also earned a second regional title in Oratorical Declamation. This achievement marks Kelly as the first freshman in Joliet Central history to win two events at an IHSA Speech Regional.

Jackson also qualified in a second event, Humorous Duet Acting, alongside Aida Valdovinos. Mia Buss advanced in Impromptu Speaking, completing the group of four students moving forward.

Head speech coach Joe Hoyt commented on the team's effort. "This group has put in an incredible amount of work, and their success speaks to their dedication and talent," Hoyt said. He added that the performance of the freshman and upperclassmen is special for the program. "Seeing a freshman make history while our upperclassmen continue to lead is something special for our program."

The Joliet Central Steelmen will participate in the sectional competition this weekend as they work towards securing spots at the IHSA State Championships.