Ankeny High School Teacher Receives National Speech Award

From an Ankeny school district media release:

Cary Shapiro, Ankeny High School drama, speech and performing arts teacher, has been selected by the National Federation of State High School Associations to receive the National Federation State Speech, Debate, and Theatre Award for the state of Iowa. 

There are only 19 recipients of the state award in the United States this year. Shapiro was selected as a state recipient based on recommendations made this fall.

The IHSAA recognized Shapiro as an exceptional leader in the Ankeny school system who has worked as a mentor to young teachers in his role as a supervising teacher.  They noted his positive leadership and willingness to take the time to work with any coach and give a helping hand.   

Mr. Shapiro has been involved with Iowa High School Speech Association (IHSSA) activities for more than 25 years.  He has managed district and state contests in several of those years, and has been an IHSSA State Officer, a Large Group All-State Committee member, and has been involved with contest judge certification.  He has presented at the IHSSA convention several times and has hosted judge certification at Ankeny.

"I would like to personally congratulate Cary on behalf of the Ankeny High School staff and administration," said AHS Principal Jeff Hawkins. "Of course, it's no surprise to us that Cary is receiving an award of this stature.  His dedication to his students and their craft shows in the effort he puts in every day.  Mr. Shapiro is very deserving of this recognition."

The National Federation Interscholastic Speech, Theatre and Debate Educator Award was first given in 1988 when seven individuals received sectional awards.  Since that time, 170 sectional and 278 state awards have been presented nationally, for an average of only seven sectional and 11 state awards per year.  

Nominations for this award are solicited from all fifty states.  Awards for state and section are not automatically given.

For more information about this award, please contact the Iowa High School Speech Association at 515-288-9741.