LT debaters host successful 27-school tournament

Last month, Lyons Township High School’s Congressional Debate Team hosted more than 500 students from 27 schools for the Lyons Township High School Congressional Debate Tournament. Throughout the day, students competed in varsity and junior varsity chambers. Students debated hypothetical bills related to public welfare, economics and foreign affairs. Students were judged for the content in their speeches, their speaking skills and their ability to further debate.

After three sessions, all students met in the North Campus Reber Center. While scores were tallied, students were entertained by LT senior DJ Marquis (Quis) Payne, of Countryside. An awards ceremony took place, where seniors Meredith Jenkins, of Western Springs, and Lillian Hoigard, of LaGrange, won individual awards from their chambers.

Students involved in Congressional Debate follow the procedures of the senators and representatives in Washington D.C. They write legislation, work in committees, and debate their own bills and resolutions. Speeches are judged, points are accumulated, and both individual and team trophies are awarded by point totals and student voting.

The team is coached by Social Studies teacher Tom Swiontek and assisted by fellow teachers Joan Cushing and Maria Ricker.