In back, from left, are Maddie Whitaker, Jason Benyousky, Ian Peloza, Jessica Pogue, Ryun Hoffert, Alexis Ceniceros and Vivian Wise. In front, from left, are Keely Roe, Rachel Dempsey, Kylee Anders, Emma Holt and Reagan Polk. Photo provided.

Press Release

WARSAW — The Warsaw Community High School speech team qualified 11 entries and nine students for the state finals.

The students are Kylee Anders, Jason Benyousky, Alexis Ceniceros, Ian Peloza, Jessica Pogue, Reagan Polk, Keely Roe, Madeline Whitaker and Vivan Wise.

“This means that they are currently ranked top 24 in the state,” said Speech Coach Kathryn Anders. “We will find out as they compete this weekend if they will advance to top 12, then top 6.”

On March 6, the team participated in the Northeast District Speech Competition. Out of the 15 total entries, WCHS was able to qualify five students to the national speech tournament. Only the top two placings in each event are able to advance to nationals. Pogue qualified in humor, Polk qualified in drama, Peloza qualified in program oral interpretation (POI) and Anders and Benyousky qualified in duo and were tournament champions. WCHS had three students who were named to be on the all-district team. This honor is given to the top 25 point holders in the district. Kylee Anders, Rachel Dempsey and Rachel McLane were the three to represent Warsaw on this team.

Troy Akers, WCHS principal, was named the Northeast District Administrator of the Year due to his supportive efforts and encouragement of the speech team. This nomination will move on to the selection of the National Administrator of the Year Award by NSDA. Warsaw Community Schools would like to congratulate the speech team, their families, coaches and all who have supported this outstanding season.

In addition to recognition at contests, Rachel Dempsey, senior on the speech team, was awarded the first annual Jennifer K. Shepherd Mental Attitude Award. This award will be given to a deserving senior each year, along with a $500 scholarship to a college of their choosing. Shepherd was with WCS for 20 years previously as a teacher and an administrator. In 2017, Shepherd was diagnosed with ALS.

“Throughout it all, Jennifer has maintained a positive mental attitude and still continues to contribute to the happiness of others and offer encouragement,” said Kathryn Anders.

From left, are Jennifer K. Shepherd and Rachel Dempsey. Dempsey was presented with the Jennifer K. Shepherd Mental Attitude Award/Scholarship. Photo provided.