Forensics Team
Forensics (also known as Speech and Debate) is an academic activity that requires regular practice, coaching, and hard work. The team travels across the state to compete against other Tennessee schools in multiple acting or speech events. Each event in Forensics features a different aspect of public speaking or acting that includes a unique skill or talent. Over the course of their academic career, students are allowed to compete in multiple categories of their choosing. Different events include Solo Acting, Duet Acting, Humorous Interpretation, Dramatic Interpretation, Duo Interpretation, Duet Improvisation, Prose, Poetry, Informative Speaking, and so much more to choose from. They compete all throughout the year, ultimately preparing for our district and state tournaments at the end of the year. Currently, we have about 35 students that participate and compete on our team. At past and recent competitions, we have been lucky enough to win the top 3 placings, including 1st place, as a team in sweepstakes. As of recently, we have also had multiple students place on the National Speech and Debate Association top 100 student rankings, which are based on points earned by participating in a number of events. Among competing against other Tennessee schools, we have also taken select students to the National-Qualifiers tournament for the last few years. Here, we have had a handful of students advance to the final round. Along with all of the major success we have had as a team, Forensics is overall a helpful tool that can build confidence, improve communication/public speaking, and increase critical thinking skills to better prepare students for college. Here at SDHS, our team is very motivated and is inclined to provide students with life skills that are very much vital to one’s success in the future!
Faculty Sponsor/Instructor: Lucy Boydston