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Florida Debate Initiative Announces Winners of Statewide Veterans Day Speech Contest

Writer's picture: Brittany ClarkBrittany Clark

Oviedo, FL – The Florida Debate Initiative (FDI) proudly announced the winners of its 2024 Veterans Day Speech Contest, held in partnership with the Oviedo-Winter Springs American Legion Post 243. The contest, themed “The Importance of Civic Duty,” had students of all ages from across the state honor veterans while showcasing their leadership and communication skills.


Elementary and middle school participants submitted speeches highlighting the value of civic engagement, while high school students facilitated the judging process. A distinguished panel judged these submissions, including veterans from Post 243 and Oviedo Mayor Megan Sladek.


FDI President Abraham López emphasized the contest's significance: "This event bridges generations, honors our veterans, and empowers students to lead with purpose. It’s a testament to how speech and debate can inspire young people to serve their communities with dedication and pride.”


Contest Winners

3rd–5th Grade Division

  • 1st Place: Roger Worboys, AD Henderson at FAU, Boca Raton – $100

  • 2nd Place: Paul Moywaywa, The Frazer School, Gainesville – $75

  • 3rd Place: Lahera Reinerio, Imagine Kissimmee Charter Academy, Kissimmee – $50



6th–7th Grade Division

  • 1st Place: Emerson Blue, Seaside Neighborhood School, Santa Rosa Beach – $100

  • 2nd Place: Eesha Balaji, Sanford Middle School, Sanford – $75

  • 3rd Place: Madison Lavidas, Randall Middle School, Lithia – $50


8th Grade Division

  • 1st Place: Jillian Pereira, Seaside Neighborhood School, Watersound – $100

  • 2nd Place: Chloe O'Donoghue, Seaside Neighborhood School, Freeport – $75

  • 3rd Place: George Odom, Pembroke Pines Charter Middle School West Campus, Pembroke Pines – $50





The Florida Debate Initiative extends its gratitude to all participants, families, and the Oviedo-Winter Springs American Legion Post 243 for their support in making this competition a success. Together, we celebrated the shared values of service, leadership, and community, inspiring the next generation of civic leaders.


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About Florida Debate Initiative (FDI)

The Florida Debate Initiative promotes competitive speech and debate across Florida’s middle and high schools, empowering emerging student leaders with essential communication, leadership, and critical thinking skills. Through its partnership with the Florida Department of Education’s Florida Civics and Debate Initiative (FCDI), FDI aims to make speech and debate accessible to students from all backgrounds across the state. To learn more about the Florida Debate Initiative, go to www.FloridaDebate.org or follow us on social media @FloridaDebate.




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