Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association ACTAA News Feed

Rep. Brown named a NFHS Heart of the Arts recipient.

Zackery Tucker — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 22:35:03 GMT

The Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) is proud to announce that Matthew Brown has been named a 2026 recipient of the NFHS Heart of the Arts award by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), recognizing his decade-long transformative impact on Conway High School’s Speech, Debate, and Mock Trial programs. Brown was one of only 21 individuals in the nation to receive the award.

A Conway-based attorney, state representative, and committed community leader, Brown began volunteering with Conway High School’s Mock Trial program in 2016—the same year the school debuted in competition. Over the past ten years, his guidance has helped the program grow from a fledgling team into one of Arkansas’ top contenders, earning three state championships, multiple runner-up finishes, and three appearances at the National High School Mock Trial Championship. Beyond trophies, Brown’s mentorship has inspired countless students to pursue careers in law, political science, and public service.

Brown’s dedication extends far beyond coaching. He has devoted countless hours to teaching courtroom procedures, building confidence, fostering teamwork, and supporting students with meals, travel funding, recommendation letters, and opportunities to observe the legal system firsthand. His commitment reflects a deep investment in students’ personal and professional growth.

Each year, the NFHS Heart of the Arts Award honors individuals or groups involved in high school speech, debate, or theatre in Arkansas who exemplify outstanding character, service, and dedication. Recipients are recognized for acts of leadership, sportsmanship, community service, or for overcoming challenges that reflect the positive impact of education-based arts programs.

“Rep. Brown represents the very heart of ACTAA’s mission,” said ACTAA President Zackery Tucker. “He has nurtured students not just as competitors, but as future leaders. His service, compassion, and commitment create lasting impact—not only for individual students, but for entire communities.”

Conway High School Speech & Debate teacher Casey Griffith added, “Matt has a remarkable ability to make the law accessible and meaningful to high school students. He doesn’t just instruct—they understand the why behind every lesson. Students enter our Mock Trial program shy and uncertain, and emerge confident, determined, and ready to lead. That transformation is all because of Matt.”

As a 2025 Heart of ACTAA recipient, Brown was nominated by ACTAA for the NFHS Heart of the Arts awards.

The Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting communication, debate, forensics, and theatre as essential skills and art forms. ACTAA is the official sanctioning body authorized by the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA) and the National Federation of State High Schools (NFHS) to oversee interscholastic speech and debate competitions in Arkansas.

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Photo Caption: Arkansas State Representative Matthew Brown accepts the 2025 Heart of ACTAA Award from ACTAA President Zackery Tucker and Conway Speech & Debate educator Casey Griffith at the ACTAA Annual Conference in Hot Springs on August 30, 2025.

Date Set for State Speech & Debate Tournament, April 17-18

Zackery Tucker — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 17:32:22 GMT

The Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) has announced that the 2026 Arkansas Forensics & Debate State Championship Tournament will be held April 17-18 at North Little Rock High School.

The Arkansas Forensics & Debate State Championship Tournament is the official Arkansas Activities Association (AAA) sanctioned state title competition for high school speech & debate activities in Arkansas. Each year, student competitors earn a place in the state tournament by advancing into certain final rounds of competition at one or more of the sanctioned speech & debate tournaments hosted throughout the state in a season that runs from September to April. Approximately 250 of the state’s top student competitors from 20-plus high schools are expected to qualify to compete in the tournament to earn a state champion title in one of the 21 individual or team speech & debate events.

Details about the Arkansas Forensics & Debate State Championship Tournament will be made available at actaa.org/state.

About ACTAA.

Founded in 1919 as the Arkansas Little Theatre Association, ACTAA has a long history of promoting the rigorous study and ethical practice of professional communication, debate, and theatre arts as an essential discipline, life skill, and art form. As a professional association of educators since 1934, ACTAA has served as the official organization sanctioned by the AAA to govern interscholastic speech, debate, and theatre competitions between AAA member schools in Arkansas. Through supporting educators in the classroom and coordinating interscholastic competition, ACTAA works to provide the students of Arkansas opportunities to grow critical thinking skills, interpersonal effectiveness, leadership, collaborative work, problem-solving, self-efficacy, etc., in experiential learning through debate, forensics, acting, and public speaking.

All-State Speech & Debate Announced from Fall 2025 Competition.

Zackery Tucker — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 14:00:00 GMT

The Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) is pleased to announce the 2026 All-State Speech & Debate students from Fall 2025 competition.

These students finished in the top of their field in Arkansas’ 25+ speech and debate events, earned the recognition of “All-State Speech & Debate” for the academic year, and qualified to compete at the Arkansas State Forensics & Debate Championship tournament in April.

Students can earn all-state recognition in more than one event, and are recognized with a numbered diamond to accompany the all-state title for the number of event qualifiers earned to the state tournament. (e.g., a student who qualifies for the state tournament in three events would be recognized for “Three Diamond All-State Speech & Debate.”)

As of December 1, the following top seven students have already qualified for the four or more all-state diamond designations in high school Speech & Debate in the 2025-2026 competition season.

Nine Diamond All-State Speech & Debate: Maximus Gamble of Dardanelle High School, qualifying in Congressional Debate, Duet Improvisation, Extemporaneous Speaking, Impromptu Speaking, Informative Speaking, Original Oratory, Poetry Interpretation, Public Debate, & Public Forum Debate.
Six Diamond All-State Speech & Debate: Alexander Gamble of Dardanelle High School, qualifying in Congressional Debate, Duet Improvisation, Original Oratory, Public Debate, Public Forum Debate, & Impromptu Speaking.
Four Diamond All-State Speech & Debate: Nathan Inman of Cabot High School, qualifying in Dramatic Interpretation, Duet Improvisation, Humorous Interpretation, & Program of Oral Interpretation; Bryleigh Heaton of Dardanelle High School, qualifying in Duet Improvisation, Informative Speaking, Public Debate, & Public Forum Debate; Caleb Whittle of Har-Ber High School, qualifying in Congressional Debate, Dramatic Song Lyric Interpretation, Extemporaneous Speaking, & Public Debate; Emily Starkey of Har-Ber High School, qualifying in Congressional Debate, Impromptu Speaking, Original Oratory, & Public Forum Debate; Hannah Freeman of Har-Ber High School, qualifying in Dramatic Interpretation, Duet Improvisation, Oral Interpretation, & Poetry Interpretation; and Adrianna Cain of Morrilton High School, qualifying in Informative Speaking, Original Oratory, Poetry Interpretation, & Public Debate.

2026 All-State Speech & Debate (Fall 2025) List:

Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts (7)
Bentonville High School (17)
Bentonville West High School (22)
Cabot High School (17)
Conway High School (11)
Dardanelle High School (12)
Don Tyson School of Innovation (7)
Episcopal Collegiate School (16)
Fayetteville High School (13)
Haas Hall Academy (4)
Hall-West High School of Innovation (1)
Har-Ber High School (22)
Joe T. Robinson High School (1)
Little Rock Central High School (6)
Mills University Studies High School (1)
Morrilton High School (4)
Mount St. Mary Academy (1)
North Little Rock High School (2)
Parkview Arts & Science Magnet High School (9)
Rogers Heritage High School (2)
Russellville High School (9)
Sylvan Hills High School (6)
The Academies at Jonesboro High School (5)

Full Roster of 2026 All-State Speech & Debate (Fall 2025)

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Arkansas Student Congress Bill Book & Assignments Announced

Zackery Tucker — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 13:57:24 GMT

The Arkansas Student Congress Committee has announced the caucus, chamber, and committee assignments for the upcoming model legislative event, which is scheduled for Nov. 2-4.

Assignments can be found in the 2024 Bill Book, which also publishes original student-written dockets for debate in committee and legislative sessions. The Bill Book can be accessed at actaa.org/congress.

We Must Equip Our Communities to Choose Civil Discourse Over Violence.

Zackery Tucker — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 02:31:49 GMT

We are deeply saddened by the tragic shootings at Evergreen High School in Colorado and Utah Valley University today. Though these incidents did not occur close to our homes, it is a heartbreaking reality that any student, educator, or family must prepare for and respond to the threat of mass violence in spaces that should be defined by learning, growth, and community.

These tragedies remind us that we must do more to equip our communities to engage in civil discourse. Incivility, misinformation, and the blurring of truth through synthetic media are eroding the shared reality democracy requires. When communities lack the skills to listen, debate, and resolve conflict peacefully, division festers and violence too often takes its place.

The events of today should never happen. No one should feel violence is the only way to communicate their message, and no one should be murdered for expressing their opinion.

We remain hopeful that one day, our students and communities will be better equipped to communicate effectively and where such threats are no longer a daily fear, but a distant memory—and where the next generation can collaborate and thrive together.

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ACTAA announces 2025-2026 Student Advisory Board for Speech & Debate in Arkansas.

Zackery Tucker — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 02:48:39 GMT

Nine high school student leaders from across the state have been selected to serve on the Arkansas Speech & Debate Student Advisory Board for the 2025-2026 academic year. The nine juniors and seniors were chosen for their outstanding leadership skills, achievements in academics and activities, and commitment to positively impacting their communities. The group will attend several meetings throughout the 2025-2026 academic year, being provided the opportunity to work with adult leadership of the Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) to grow leadership skills, bring youth perspectives to speech & debate, and support inter-program camaraderie and community within the Arkansas speech & debate high school circuit.

“Promoting student involvement and leadership training within our learning community is one of the organization’s most important initiatives,” shared Zackery Tucker, ACTAA President. “As ACTAA continues to support educators to invest and train Arkansas’ next generation of leaders through speech & debate, I am excited to gain the insight and perspectives of the students we ultimately serve on how speech & debate can be more than just competition but a valued experience in every school in the state.”

2025-2026 Student Advisory Board:

Mallory Cloud, Russellville High School
Matthew Collins, Episcopal Collegiate School
Isabelle Elkins, Little Rock Central
Reagan Hall, Bentonville West High School
Jeremy Jackson, Jr., Cabot High School
Anthony Kong, Fayetteville High School
Manvitha Narasimhan, Bentonville High School
Lily Stockton, Parkview Arts & Science
Wren Welky, Conway High School

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The Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) is a non-profit professional organization serving educators. Its purpose is to promote communication, debate, forensics and theatre as an essential discipline, life skill, and art form. Additionally, ACTAA is the official sanctioning organization authorized by the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA) and National Federation of State High Schools Association (NFHS) to govern interscholastic speech, debate and theatre competition in Arkansas.

Brown Named 2025 Heart of ACTAA

Zackery Tucker — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 13:16:31 GMT

The Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) is proud to announce that Matt Brown has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Heart of ACTAA Award, recognizing his decade of transformative service to the students of Conway High School’s Speech, Debate, and Mock Trial programs.

Brown, a Conway-based attorney, state representative, and dedicated community leader, first joined Conway High School’s Mock Trial program as a volunteer coach in 2016, the same year the school entered the competition for the first time. Over the past ten years, his leadership has helped the program grow from a brand-new team to one of the strongest in Arkansas, earning three state championships, multiple runner-up finishes, and three appearances at the National High School Mock Trial Championship. Beyond awards, Brown’s mentorship has inspired countless students to pursue careers in law, political science, and public service.

More than a coach, Brown has been a consistent mentor and advocate for students—sacrificing time, resources, and energy to support their growth. From teaching courtroom procedures to fostering confidence and teamwork, his influence has reached far beyond the courtroom. He has also provided meals, funded travel, written recommendation letters, and created opportunities for students to see the legal system in action.

“Matt Brown represents the very heart of ACTAA’s mission,” said ACTAA President Zackery Tucker. “He has invested in students not only as competitors, but as young leaders. His work exemplifies the kind of service, compassion, and commitment that makes lasting change—not just for individual students, but for entire communities.”

Casey Griffith, Conway High School Speech & Debate teacher, added: “Matt has a gift for making the law accessible and understandable to high school students. He doesn’t just tell them what to do—he makes sure they understand why they’re doing it. I’ve watched students walk into our Mock Trial program shy, uncertain, and insecure—and walk out determined, confident, and ready to lead. That transformation is because of Matt.”

The Heart of ACTAA Award is given annually to honor individuals who embody the spirit of ACTAA through extraordinary dedication to students and programs across Arkansas. Brown’s decade of selfless service has left an indelible mark on the Conway community and will continue to inspire generations of students to come.

As Heart of ACTAA, Brown will be nominated by the association for the National Federation of State High Schools Association (NFHS) Heart of the Arts award this winter.

Jones Named 2025 ACTAA Administrator of the Year

Zackery Tucker — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 12:57:24 GMT

The Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) has announced Mrs. Sara Jones, Head of School at Mount St. Mary Academy in Little Rock, as the 2025 Administrator of the Year. Jones was honored during ACTAA’s annual awards ceremony, recognizing her outstanding leadership and unwavering support of students, faculty, and the arts.

Known for her thoughtful and servant-centered leadership, Jones has worked to intentionally strengthen school culture at Mount St. Mary Academy. She is deeply committed to student success and faculty well-being, championing initiatives that balance academic excellence with mental health and morale. As Lead Counselor Amy observed, “Sara’s leadership is truly exceptional, marked by her remarkably thoughtful approach to decision-making. She consistently takes the time to consider the potential impact on every member of our school community.”

Jones has also been especially recognized for her advocacy of theatre, forensics, and other fine arts programs. Jenny Moses, Arts Department Chair, shared: “Sara encourages and enables me to be a more effective teacher. She listens, collaborates, and provides the support needed for our students to thrive, even when that means reimagining traditional approaches. Her leadership has made it possible to dream bigger for our students and programs.”

Her colleagues agree that Jones’s leadership makes a tangible difference. Admissions Coordinator Eden praised her for “securing both the space and staffing needed for the arts to thrive.” Assistant Head of School Robin added, “Sara is a servant leader… She leads with integrity, empathy, and humility. There is no task too great or too small for Sara to tackle.”

ACTAA President Zackery Tucker underscored why the association chose to honor Jones: “Sara Jones doesn’t just talk about supporting the arts—she shows up. She empowers teachers, uplifts students, and models the kind of leadership that transforms schools and communities. We are proud to recognize her as ACTAA’s Administrator of the Year.”

Stanley named 2025 ACTAA Teacher of the Year.

Zackery Tucker — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 02:37:45 GMT

The Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) has selected Kim Stanley, theatre and communication educator at North Little Rock High School, as the 2025 ACTAA Teacher of the Year.

Stanley, who was also honored earlier this year as the North Little Rock School District Teacher of the Year, has dedicated more than 25 years to teaching in her hometown school community. A proud alumna of North Little Rock High School, she has spent her career building a vibrant theatre and communication program that fosters student creativity, confidence, and excellence both on stage and in competition.

“Kim Stanley’s career represents the very best of our profession,” said Zackery Tucker, President of ACTAA. “Her impact extends far beyond her classroom—she is shaping future leaders, communicators, and artists who will carry these skills throughout their lives. We are proud to recognize her with this award.”

Under her leadership, North Little Rock High School has continued its strong tradition in theatre, speech, and debate, regularly producing high-quality performances and preparing students for ACTAA competitions across the state. Colleagues and students alike describe her as a dedicated mentor whose influence reaches beyond the classroom.

The ACTAA Teacher of the Year award honors an educator who exemplifies the association’s mission to promote excellence in communication, debate, theatre, and forensics across Arkansas. Stanley’s career reflects this commitment through decades of service, innovation, and advocacy for the arts.

As ACTAA Teacher of the Year, Stanley will be nominated by the association for the National Federation of State High Schools Association (NFHS) Outstanding Speech, Debate, & Theatre Educator award this winter.

AGFC & ACTAA to host congressional debate as part of the inaugural Generation Conservation Competition.

Zackery Tucker — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 12:41:31 GMT

Yesterday, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) announced its first-ever Generation Conservation Education Summit, set for November 5–6, 2025.

District administrators should have already received notice of this event via the ADE Commissioner’s Memo.

The Generation Conservation initiative is designed to create an authentic learning environment where Arkansas teachers and K–12 students can engage directly with AGFC programs. The summit will highlight the Commission’s role in conservation statewide while offering students and educators the opportunity to compete, collaborate, and connect with conservation professionals.

Regional qualifying competitions will be held September 10–11 and September 17–18, 2025, featuring 24 conservation-themed events — including NSDA-style congressional debate — that will serve as preliminary rounds leading up to the statewide summit in Nov. Depending on participation, these competitions may also function as ASC qualifiers. To help ensure smooth execution and strengthen partnerships between our communities, ACTAA leadership will support all three qualifying events by assisting with planning, logistics, and competition tabulation.

At the summit, each participating school may bring up to 24 students to compete in a variety of challenges for prizes, recognition, and potential additional funding for their school.

To ensure participation, please note the following important deadlines:

August 29 – Deadline for regional and pre-competition sign-up
September 10-11 – East (Jonesboro) and West (Springdale) regional competitions
September 17-18 – North (Harrison) and South (Arkadelphia) regional competitions
October 1 – Deadline for final on-site (Summit) competition sign-up
November 5-6 – Generation Conservation Education Summit (Hot Springs).

Registration, competition subjects, and event details, including dates and location, are available at: www.agfc.com/education/generation-conservation/.

Fall 2025 Proposed Rule & Governing Changes

Zackery Tucker — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 00:41:19 GMT

Ahead of the Fall Conference, Aug. 28-30, at The Hotel Hot Springs, Executive Director, Martene Campbell, shares three proposed changes to the association's governing documents and competition rules for its activities.

Each year, members are able to submit changes to ACTAA's governing documents and competition rules for consideration for adoption at the organization's annual business meeting by the membership.

Proposed amendments for consideration at the General Membership Business Meeting on Saturday, August 30:

Proposal No 1. Amending the Constitution and Bylaws to create flexibility in Student Congress Dates. Submitted by the Student Congress Committee. Link to full proposal.
Proposal No 2. Amending the ASC Qualifying Tournament Document to clarify incorrect language, update practices, and require open invitationals. Submitted by ACTAA Leadership. Link to full proposal.
Proposal No 3. Adopting the initial Arkansas Tournament Tabroom Shell. Request access to review the tournament shell in Tabroom proposed by the ASC Committee ahead of the General Membership Business Meeting by completing the form linked here: Request access to the Arkansas Tournament Shell.
Proposal No. 4. Amending the ASC Qualifying Tournament Document to establish a Junior High Conference Championship tournament and related administration. Submitted by Laurie Harrison & Tiffany Tucker. Link to full proposal.

For reference, below are links to the current versions of each document being proposed to be amended:

ACTAA Constitution & By-laws (Proposal No 1.)

ASC Qualifying Tournament Document (Proposal No 3 & 4)

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Registration open for Camp ACTAA

Zackery Tucker — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 02:19:12 GMT

Camp ACTAA 2025 is a free virtual summer camp designed for Arkansas speech and debate students who want to sharpen their skills, explore new events, and connect with peers and coaches from across the state. Held July 27 – August 2, this flexible online camp offers sessions throughout the day via Google Meet. Whether you're brand new to forensics or an experienced competitor, you'll benefit from interactive lectures, demo rounds, performance critiques, and one-on-one coaching. With tracks for novices, intermediate competitors, and event-specific training in debate and interpretation, Camp ACTAA meets students where they are—and helps them grow.

If you're a high school or junior high student interested in speech and debate, don’t miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and connect—all at no cost. Students can sign up for the sessions that match their interests and schedules, and those with advanced experience are encouraged to apply as student-instructors for a chance to lead and mentor others. Fill out the Student Interest Form now to get updates as registration opens this spring. Camp ACTAA is where Arkansas’ next generation of speakers and leaders come together—join us and be part of it!

Standing Together After Today’s Incident at Nationals.

Zackery Tucker — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 02:39:01 GMT

While it was an unsettling moment for many, we are incredibly grateful that all are safe and that, in the midst of confusion and concern, the speech and debate community came together with compassion, calm, and care for one another.

Today, a safety concern that prompted an evacuation occurred at the National Speech & Debate Tournament in Des Moines, IA.

Coordinating a tournament of any size is a challenging task, and we are thankful to the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA) for their diligence in addressing the issue and ensuring that safety measures were put in place quickly.

It must be said clearly: the fact that students, educators, and families must prepare for and respond to the threat of mass attackers is a heartbreaking reality. One that should not exist. Every student deserves to feel safe while doing what they love, and we must continue to advocate for a world where safety is not a privilege, but a guarantee. We can only hope that our students will one day use the very skills they’ve honed in speech and debate — persuasion, advocacy, critical thinking, storytelling — to build a future where such threats are no longer a daily fear, and where their children can thrive in peace.

As the students, coaches, and judges process today’s events, we want to also express our concern for those impacted by this crisis. It’s important to recognize that not everyone processes trauma in the same way; and its effects may not be immediately visible. As a community of educators and ethical professionals, we have a responsibility to support one another, to check in, and to remain attentive to signs of stress or distress in ourselves and for the others in our care and friendship. As a resource to those members present at the tournament, we have shared several trauma-informed care resources on our website, accessible on the homepage.

As we consider how to care for our student competitors, let us remember that this tournament represents the culmination of months — and in many cases, years — of dedication, talent, and resilience. Let us remain committed to celebrating the brilliance of our students, skills they've developed, and the stories they set out to share this week. As student continue to compete, let us ensure today's events do not overshadow their talent and dedication to the activity.

Thank you to everyone who supported one another today. Your strength and solidarity are what make this community truly extraordinary.

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Trauma-informed care resources for educators.

Here are some research-based trauma-informed care resources for educators. As more resources are identified, they will be added in the coming weeks.

SAMHSA’s Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA]). This guidance document introduces the concept of trauma and offers a framework for becoming a trauma-informed organization.

National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) (SAMHSA). This Website, funded by the Center for Mental Health Services, serves as a resource for the public, professionals, and others serving children and who are concerned about child traumatic stress.

Child Trauma Toolkit for Educators (NCTSN). This publication provides school administrators, educators, school staff, and parents with basic information about working with traumatized children in the school system.

Age-Related Reactions to a Traumatic Event (NCTSN). This publication describes how school-age children and adolescents may react to traumatic events and offers suggestions on how parents, physicians, communities, and schools can respond and provide children with support.

Helping Children and Youth Who Have Experienced Traumatic Events (SAMHSA). This publication shares information on how systems of care and trauma-informed services can improve the lives of youth who have experienced traumatic events.

Understanding Educator Resilience and Developing a Self-Care Plan Webinar (REMS TA Center and ED’s Office of Safe and Supportive Schools [OSSS] with University of Southern California Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work). This archived Webinar provides information on the concepts of resilience and compassion fatigue; the impact of stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue on the education environment; how to identify signs and symptoms of compassion fatigue; and concrete steps for developing a professional self-care plan.

Using the Secondary Traumatic Stress Core Competencies in Trauma-Informed Supervision (NCTSN). This publication discusses the importance of quality supervision that organizations can provide to staff members at risk for secondary traumatic stress.

Understanding Educator Resilience and Developing a Self-Care Plan Specialized Training Package (REMS TA Center). This downloadable resource features self-paced emergency management training materials on resilience strategies that can be used to increase the ability of educators and school staff to work more effectively with students impacted by stress, loss, and trauma brought on by emergency events.

ACTAA Launches New "Heart of ACTAA" Award to Honor Outstanding Contributions to Arts Education

Zackery Tucker — Fri, 16 May 2025 11:34:43 GMT

The Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) is proud to announce the launch of a new recognition initiative—the Heart of ACTAA Award. This meaningful award was officially approved by the ACTAA Board of Directors during the Fall Conference held in September 2024.

The Heart of ACTAA Award will be presented annually, as deemed appropriate, to an individual or organization—whether a student, adult, or group—who is associated with a high school speech and debate or theatre program in Arkansas and who exemplifies the positive spirit and ideals that lie at the core of education-based arts activities.

"This award represents our commitment to not only celebrating excellence in performance and instruction, but also the compassion, resilience, and service that drive our programs," said Zackery Tucker, ACTAA President.

The award may be given in recognition of a singular act or a sustained effort. Examples of qualifying contributions include:

Demonstrating exemplary "heart," sportsmanship, and/or citizenship in participation;
Going above and beyond to assist others within the school or community;
Overcoming adversity or a significant personal challenge.

In a significant extension of this recognition, the Heart of ACTAA honoree will also be nominated by ACTAA for the prestigious NFHS Heart of the Arts Award, a national-level honor bestowed by the National Federation of State High School Associations. Following the Fall Conference, ACTAA’s NFHS Liaison will work closely with the selected honoree to complete and submit the NFHS nomination packet.

The deadline to submit nominations for the Heart of ACTAA Award is July 31. Nominations are encouraged from ACTAA members and stakeholders, and the Nomination Committee will also consider the previous year’s Spirit of ACTAA honorees.

For more information about the Heart of ACTAA Award or to submit a nomination, please visit actaa.org/awards.

About ACTAA
The Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) is a statewide professional organization dedicated to the promotion and support of communication, speech, debate, and theatre arts education in Arkansas schools. ACTAA provides advocacy, resources, and recognition for educators and students working to advance these critical disciplines.

31 Named State Forensics & Debate Champions

Zackery Tucker — Mon, 05 May 2025 03:48:14 GMT

May 2-3, the Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) hosted the 106th Arkansas Forensics and Debate State Championships at Fayetteville High School.

In addition to recognizing of Episcopal Collegiate School as the 2025 Academic State Champion, the state tournament included competition in thirty-one separate events, where students qualified for state competition through advancing to select elimination rounds in previous sanctioned invitational tournaments hosted throughout the 2024-2025 season.

The 2025 Arkansas State team championships are:

Mount St. Mary Academy in Music and Words
Cabot High School in Reader’s Theatre

The 2025 Arkansas State individual champions are:

Adam Stanisor & Chase Gwynne Cabot High School in Varsity Public Forum Debate
Allision Frazier of Russellville High School in Extemporaneous Speaking
Ameya Nambiar of Bentonville West High School in Dramatic Interpretation
Annabelle Owen of Mount St. Mary Academy in Solo Acting
Anthony Kong of Fayetteville High School in Informative Speaking
Ayati Rana & Kaavya Rathod of Bentonville High School in Novice Public Forum Debate
Beatrix Drewyor & Reagan Hall of Bentonville West High School in Duo Interpretation
Cache Tucker of Cabot High School in Varsity Lincoln Douglas Debate
Cameron Simmons of Little Rock Central High School in Varsity Lincoln Douglas Debate
Christopher Goshen of Cabot High School in Solo Musical Acting
Elyse Ortega of Conway High School in Program of Oral Interpretation
Elyse Ortega of Conway High School in Storytelling
Harper Ware & Razik Wilkerson of of Little Rock Central High School in Novice Policy Debate
Isabella Nguyen & Maya Johnson of Mount St. Mary Academy in Duet Musical Acting
Jack Liu & Alvin Wu of Little Rock Central High School in Varsity Policy Debate
Jeremy Jackson, Jr. of Cabot High School in Song Lyrics Interpretation
Kaden Buckner of Cabot High School in Varsity Lincoln Douglas Debate
Karly Elliott & Brinkley Hill of Cabot High School in Improvised Duet Acting
Karly Elliott of Cabot High School in Humorous Interpretation
Liliana Pirani of Fayetteville High School in Big Questions Debate
Maddy Gorman of Russellville High School in Novice Public Debate
Matthew Collins of Episcopal Collegiate School in Varsity Congressional Debate
Max Murray of Episcopal Collegiate School in Novice Congressional Debate
Nyasa Lovely of Russellville High School in Varsity Public Debate
Olivia Patterson of Bentonville West High School in Novice Lincoln Douglas Debate
Rachael McCall of Cabot High School in Original Oratory
Samuel Monroe of Cabot High School in Poetry Interpretation
Séan Landers of Cabot High School in Prose Interpretation
Sydney Kersey of Mount St. Mary Academy in Impromptu Speaking

All-State Speech & Debate Announced for 2024-2025 Season

Zackery Tucker — Sat, 26 Apr 2025 04:15:30 GMT

The Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) is pleased to announce the 2025 All-State Speech & Debate students from the 2024-2025 competition year

At the end of the competition season, the following top six students have qualified for six or more all-state diamond designations in high school Speech & Debate in the 2024-2025.

Eight Diamond All-State Speech & Debate: Alexander Gamble of Dardanelle High School, qualifying in Congressional Debate, Informative Speaking, Impromptu Speaking, Original Oratory, Poetry Interpretation, Public Debate, Public Forum Debate, & Storytelling
Seven Diamond All-State Speech & Debate: Jeremy Jackson, Jr. of Cabot High School, qualifying in Dramatic Interpretation, Duet Improvisational Acting, Humorous Interpretation, Impromptu Speaking, Original Oratory, Poetry Interpretation, & Song Lyric Interpretation; and Maya Johnson of Mount St. Mary Academy, qualifying in Dramatic Interpretation, Duet Improvisational Acting, Duo Interpretation, Duo Musical Acting, Poetry Interpretation, Program Oral Interpretation, & Solo Musical Acting
Six Diamond All-State Speech & Debate:Maximus Gamble of Dardanelle High School, qualifying in Informative Speaking, Impromptu Speaking, Original Oratory, Poetry Interpretation, Public Debate, & Public Forum Debate; Adreana Pérez of Har-Ber High School, qualifying in Congressional Debate, Informative Speaking, Impromptu Speaking, Original Oratory, Public Forum Debate, & Song Lyric Interpretation; and Isabella Nguyen of Mount St. Mary Academy, qualifying in Duet Improvisational Acting, Duo Interpretation, Duo Musical Acting, Poetry Interpretation, Program Oral Interpretation, & Solo Musical Acting

2025 All-State Speech & Debate List

ACTAA Relaunches Statewide Summer Camp as Camp ACTAA: A Free, Virtual Speech & Debate Experience in 2025

Zackery Tucker — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 12:17:39 GMT

The Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) is thrilled to announce the relaunch of the Arkansas Speech & Debate Institute as Camp ACTAA, a free, one-week virtual summer camp led by ACTAA’s Student Advisory Board. Set to debut in Summer 2025, Camp ACTAA is a student-led mentoring and educational project designed to support, connect, and empower Arkansas speech and debate students.

Camp ACTAA is primarily geared toward middle school and novice competitors, but all students are welcome—whether you're interested in watching demo rounds, exploring new event formats, or just meeting other students from across the state.

Taught by a mix of experienced coaches and qualified current and former student competitors, Camp ACTAA offers a unique and accessible experience to help students grow regardless of their background, location, or experience level.

Why Camp ACTAA?

Many new competitors in Arkansas face barriers to access—uncertainty about how to start, limited exposure to various events like Policy, World Schools, or Declamation, and the high cost or inaccessibility of out-of-state camps. Camp ACTAA aims to:

Even the playing field for students across all regions and school sizes
Build a stronger, more connected community within Arkansas
Provide a free, meaningful opportunity to learn, grow, and engage in speech and debate

The Student Advisory Board is committed to creating a low-cost, high-impact experience that fosters learning and leadership among Arkansas’s rising speech and debate stars.

Get Involved!

Students interested in attending Camp ACTAA should fill out the Student Interest Form.
Students interested in teaching at Camp ACTAA can apply via the Student Instructor Application.

For more information or questions, contact Camp Director and SAB Advisor, Britney McGloflin at britney.mcgloflin@fayar.net.

Let’s build the next generation of speakers, thinkers, and leaders—together. See you at Camp ACTAA!

Call for Academic All-State Rosters

Zackery Tucker — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 16:38:57 GMT

ACTAA Leadership announces a call to report rosters for the Academic All-State (individual) and the Academic State Champion (program) recognition.

These two new recognition categories were created by the ACTAA Board of Directors at organization's Fall Conference in September to provide an opportunity for students to highlight their commitment to scholarship across all subject areas in addition to our historical practice of rewarding competition success out-of-the-classroom.

ACTAA- member sponsors of speech & debate and theatre programs must completed an academic roster signed by the ACTAA member & appropriate principal and email the scanned form to actaa.ar@gmail.com before 5:00 p.m. on April 15 to ensure recognition at the Arkansas State Championship (ASC) tournament, May 2-3, 2025.

ACTAA Academic Roster Reporting Form

Academic All-State

Academic All-State recognition is awarded to student speech & debate competitors and theatre production members who have achieved academically in addition to co-curricular activities in communication & theatre arts. ACTAA members sponsoring the program must submit a roster of the names and compatible GPA on a 4.0 scale of students active in their program. (e.g., theatre students must have had a role in at least one production during the academic year (i.e., acting, tech, props, scene design, etc.) and speech & debate students must have completed in at least two tournaments during the academic year.) Rosters are due April 15 and must be signed by the coach and appropriate principal. The top 10% of students in speech & debate and theatre of all the students reported will be recognized in each category.

Sponsors with students that meet the requirements will be provided a certificate at registration of the ASC tournament, along with All-State Speech & Debate certificates. If no representative is present at ASC, certificates will be mailed to the school.

Academic State Champion

The school with the highest average cumulative grade point average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale in speech & debate and theatre will be recognized at the ASC tournament as the Academic State Champions for their category (i.e., speech & debate or theatre).The second and third-highest average GPAs in speech & debate and theatre will be recognized as finalists for the award.

The Academic State Champions are presented a plaque similar to competition state champion recognition awarded by ACTAA at the ASC, May 2-3.

ACTAA Launches Lifetime Member Social Media Community

Zackery Tucker — Sat, 18 Jan 2025 20:25:25 GMT

At its January 2025 meeting, the Board of Directors approved the creation of a private Facebook group to help facilitate community among ACTAA lifetime members. The “ACTAA Lifetime Member Community” will be managed by the Lifetime Member Committee and ACTAA Leadership to provide an online environment for lifetime members to share life updates, coordinate in-person gatherings, and reconnect with the association's volunteer work. The Facebook group will be exclusively for lifetime members of ACTAA.

In addition to the Facebook group, the Board approved the committee to organize a social gathering of lifetime members on Tuesday, April 15, at 12:00 p.m. at the Skycrest Restaurant at Mount Magazine State Park.

Link to the Facebook group: ACTAA Lifetime Member Community.

All-State Speech & Debate Announced from Fall 2024 Competition.

Zackery Tucker — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 20:05:39 GMT

CORRECTED: 12/15/24

The Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) is pleased to announce the 2025 All-State Speech & Debate students from Fall 2024 competition.

As of December 1, the following top nine students have already qualified for the four or more all-state diamond designations in high school Speech & Debate in the 2024-2025 competition season.

Six Diamond All-State Speech & Debate: Alexander Gamble of Dardanelle High School, qualifying in Congressional Debate, Impromptu Speaking, Informative Speaking, Poetry, Public Debate, & Public Forum Debate.
Five Diamond All-State Speech & Debate: Maximus Gamble of Dardanelle High School, qualifying in Informative Speaking, Impromptu Speaking, Poetry, Public Debate, & Public Forum Debate; Beatrix Drewyor of Bentonville West High School, qualifying in Dramatic Interpretation, Duet Improvised Acting, Duo Interpretation, Humorous Interpretation, & Storytelling; and Jeremy Jackson, Jr. of Cabot, qualifying in Duet Improvised Acting, Humorous Interpretation, Original Oratory, Poetry, & Song Lyric Interpretation.
Four Diamond All-State Speech & Debate: Drey Crumpton of Cabot, qualifying in Duet Improvised Acting, Poetry, Program of Oral Interpretation, & Song Lyric Interpretation; Ganesh Nair of Jonesboro, qualifying in Congressional Debate, Extemporaneous Speaking, Impromptu Speaking, & Public Forum Debate; Reagan Hall of Bentonville West, qualifying in Duet Improvised Acting, Duo Interpretation, Humorous Interpretation, & Prose; Brinkley Hill of Cabot, qualifying in Duet Improvised Acting, Poetry, Prose, & Song Lyric Interpretation; and Hayden Mittlestat of Cabot, qualifying in Congressional Debate, Duet Improvised Acting, Extemporaneous Speaking, & Impromptu Speaking.

2025 All-State Speech & Debate (Fall 2024) List:

Bentonville High School (15)

Adhvika Ramkumar (Congressional Debate)
Aditya Ramani (Public Forum Debate)
Anaya Dike (Public Debate)
Avery Duersch (Informative Speaking)
Caroline Sanders (Congressional Debate)
Dax Ledbetter (Public Forum Debate)
Emanuel Diaz (Informative Speaking)
Evelyn Clark (Congressional Debate & Impromptu Speaking)
Grayson Lyle (Congressional Debate)
Jonathan Aby (Big Questions Debate)
Maliya Gurel (Congressional Debate)
Manvitha Narasimhan (Congressional Debate)
Micaiah Gurel (Public Debate)
Nidhi Nair (Congressional Debate)
Shamane Mallawarachchi (Public Debate)

Bentonville West High School (19):

Abigail See (Prose)
Aditi Shashidhara (Big Questions & Congressional Debate)
Ameya Nambiar (Dramatic Interpretation)
Ava Sophia Palacios (Extemporaneous Speaking)
Beatrix Drewyor (Dramatic Interpretation, Duet Improvised Acting, Duo Interpretation, Humorous Interpretation, & Storytelling)
Bella Bernard (Congressional Debate)
Cash Myhan (Public Debate)
Darby Kelley (Congressional Debate)
Isabella Bernard (Congressional Debate)
Jackson Wright (Impromptu Speaking)
Jacob Madore (Impromptu Speaking)
Kiera Miller (Dramatic Interpretation)
Lauren Vernetti (Congressional Debate)
Macy Skordal (Impromptu Speaking)
Olivia Patterson (Congressional Debate)
Presley Gipson (Big Question Debate & Original Oratory)
Reagan Hall (Duet Improvised Acting, Duo Interpretation, Humorous Interpretation, & Prose)
Tyler Lafayette (Program of Oral Interpretation)
Vivian Wang (Public Forum Debate)

Bigelow High School (10):

Asialyn McGhee (Public Forum Debate)
Brayden Austin (Public Debate & Public Forum Debate)
Brooklyn Scroggins (Impromptu Speaking, Informative Speaking & Public Debate)
Emma Bradke (Impromptu Speaking & Public Debate)
Emma Johnson (Public Debate)
Faith Schmidt (Public Debate)
Katelynn Gregg (Impromptu Speaking)
Kenneth Schmidt (Informative Speaking, Public Debate, & Public Forum Debate)
Madeline Lawson (Poetry)
Madison Nix (Public Debate)

Cabot High School (50):

Adam Stanisor (Public Forum Debate & Congressional Debate)
Aidan Kelly (Humorous Interpretation)
Amelia Hogan (Storytelling)
Alyssa Chambers (Public Forum Debate)
Brinkley Hill (Duet Improvised Acting, Poetry, Prose, & Song Lyric Interpretation)
Bryce Veasman (Original Oratory & Program of Oral Interpretation)
Cache Tucker (Public Forum Debate)
Cameron Haley (Impromptu Speaking)
Charlotte Cromer (Impromptu Speaking)
Chase Cearns (Poetry & Song Lyric Interpretation)
Chase Gwynne (Public Forum Debate)
Cooper Spaulding (Duo Interpretation)
Christopher Goshen (Prose)
Drey Crumpton (Duet Improvised Acting, Poetry, Program of Oral Interpretation, & Song Lyric Interpretation)
El Nathan Manu (Extemporaneous Speaking & Congressional Debate)
Ellington Betzold (Informative Speaking & Storytelling)
Emily Min (Original Oratory)
Emma Durham (Dramatic Interpretation, Poetry, & Prose)
Hayden Mittlestat (Congressional Debate, Duet Improvised Acting, Extemporaneous Speaking, & Impromptu Speaking)
Isabella Sampson (Congressional Debate)
Isaiah Styles (Big Questions Debate)
Jeremy Jackson, Jr. (Duet Improvised Acting, Humorous Interpretation, Original Oratory, Poetry, & Song Lyric Interpretation)
Jonathan Carson (Storytelling)
Josh Hale (Humorous Interpretation & Impromptu Speaking)
Juliana Bridges (Poetry)
Kaden Young (Congressional Debate)
Kaitlyn Carmical (Dramatic Interpretation)
Kaleigh Gates (Prose)
Karly Elliot (Duet Improvised Acting & Humorous Interpretation)
Kayli Griggs (Impromptu Speaking & Program of Oral Interpretation)
Keegan Culpepper (Public Forum Debate)
Livia Lear Sadowsky (Humorous Interpretation)
Logan Graves (Duo Interpretation)
Madison Rivera (Public Debate)
Mariska Haddock (Congressional Debate & Prose)
Mary Rose Youngblood (Original Oratory)
Mattie Jimmerson (Big Questions Debate)
Melody Fiandt (Prose)
Michaela Baker (Congressional Debate, Extemporaneous Speaking & Impromptu Speaking)
Nathan Inman (Storytelling)
Rachael McCall (Program of Oral Interpretation, Prose, & Song Lyric Interpretation)
Raygan Grindley (Poetry)
Samuel Monroe (Poetry & Storytelling)
Seán Landers (Storytelling)
Shelbi Cox (Public Forum Debate)
Shelby Baxter (Prose)
Spencer Tallon (Duet Improvised Acting, Impromptu Speaking, & Prose)
Trust Miller (Public Debate)
Tyson Sutterfield (Public Debate)
Vincent Rodriguez (Public Forum Debate)

Conway High School (11):

Addison Choate (Congressional Debate)
Dylan Mercer (Congressional Debate & Public Debate)
Elyse Ortega (Program of Oral Interpretation & Storytelling)
Ian Lee-Kim (Congressional Debate)
Joshua Mendoza (Big Questions Debate)
Karl Johnson (Public Debate)
Landon Harvey (Congressional Debate)
Milina Michel (Congressional Debate)
Mustfa Zia (Congressional Debate & Public Debate)
Naomi Brooks (Program of Oral Interpretation)
Wren Welky (Congressional Debate)

Dardanelle High School (12):

Alexander Gamble (Congressional Debate, Impromptu Speaking, Informative Speaking, Poetry, Public Debate, & Public Forum Debate)
Bayleigh Foshee (Public Debate & Poetry)
Brendan Miller (Public Debate & Public Forum Debate)
Christian Javalera (Congressional Debate & Public Debate)
Gracie Lane (Public Debate, Informative Speaking, & Impromptu Speaking)
Harper Williams (Impromptu Speaking & Public Debate)
JaHanna Payton (Poetry, Public Debate, & Public Forum Debate)
Jonathan Sykes (Congressional Debate)
Kabella Duvall (Public Debate & Public Forum Debate)
Maximus Gamble (Informative Speaking, Impromptu Speaking, Poetry, Public Debate, & Public Forum Debate)
Shaylin Hunt (Informative Speaking & Public Debate)
Talasia Woods (Public Forum Debate)

Don Tyson School of Innovation (8):

Andrew Taylor (Congressional Debate & Extemporaneous Speaking)
Brian Pittman (Congressional Debate)
Collin Farley (Congressional Debate)
Dara Cuenca (Congressional Debate & Impromptu Speaking)
Daya Pena (Congressional Debate)
Dayanna Pena Palacios (Program of Oral Interpretation)
Justin Milligan (Big Question Debate, Impromptu Speaking, & Public Forum Debate)
Tori Dolan (Congressional Debate & Public Forum Debate)

Episcopal Collegiate School (12):

Allison Tuite (Congressional Debate)
Annaleigh Castleberry (Congressional Debate)
Avery Phillips (Public Debate)
Cameron Albert (Congressional Debate)
Charlie Johnson (Congressional Debate)
Claudia Steijen (Congressional Debate)
Emily Stacks (Congressional Debate)
Emily Stone (Congressional Debate)
Matthew Collins (Congressional Debate)
Max Murry (Congressional Debate)
Scarlett Nelson (Congressional Debate)
Vivian Green (Congressional Debate)

Fayetteville High School (11):

Asher Jordan (Storytelling)
Asher Parks (Public Debate)
Ava Schulte (Congressional Debate)
Avery Kvello (Congressional Debate & Impromptu Speaking)
Benjamin Hazelip (Impromptu Speaking)
Camila Rodriguez (Congressional Debate)
Claire Brandon (Congressional Debate)
Emilea Reed (Public Debate)
Finn Welch (Congressional Debate & Public Debate)
Jackson Leopold (Public Debate)
Liliana Pirani (Big Question Debate & Congressional Debate)

Hall-West High School of Innovation (2):

Ian Ratcliff (Big Questions Debate)
Joshua Morehart (Big Questions Debate)

Har-Ber High School (15):

Aaron Oesterle (Congressional Debate)
Adreana Perez (Congressional Debate & Public Forum Debate)
April Dudley (Public Debate)
Caleb Baker (Public Debate)
Caleb Whittle (Public Debate)
Candy Aldaco (Public Debate)
Emily De La Torre (Public Debate)
Emily Starkey (Congressional Debate)
George Rodriguez (Big Question Debate)
Makenna Bedogne (Public Debate)
Noah Ward (Duet Improvised Acting)
Robert Lucas (Congressional Debate)
Samuel Myers (Congressional Debate)
Skyler Hart (Duet Improvised Acting)
Winona Watson (Congressional Debate & Program of Oral Interpretation)

Little Rock Central High School (6):

Ayoka Boaitey (Congressional Debate)
Blanche Finzer (Congressional Debate)
Genny Batcheller (Congressional Debate)
Isabelle Elkins (Congressional Debate)
Kaneeka Chakraborty (Congressional Debate)
Kendall Cloar (Congressional Debate)

Mills University Studies High School (2):

Chance Bradford (Congressional Debate)
Xavion McClennan (Impromptu Speaking)

Morrilton High School (11):

Aarya Patel (Informative Speaking & Public Debate)
Adrianna Cain (Informative Speaking, Impromptu Speaking, & Poetry)
Andrew Howard (Public Debate & Public Forum Debate)
Danajah Penn (Impromptu Speaking, Poetry, & Storytelling)
Emily Zuniga (Impromptu Speaking, Poetry, & Public Debate)
Gabriela Camarillo (Public Forum Debate)
Trevor Koontz (Public Forum Debate)
Kynlee Little (Poetry & Public Debate)
Logan Viveiros (Impromptu Speaking & Public Debate)
Savannah Waddle (Impromptu Speaking, Poetry, & Public Debate)
Wesley Watts (Impromptu Speaking & Public Debate)

Mount St. Mary Academy (4):

Annabelle Owen (Duet Improvised Acting, Impromptu Speaking, & Prose)
Cash (Duet Improvised Acting)
Isabella Nguyen (Duet Improvised Acting, Duo Interpretation, & Poetry)
Maya Johnson (Duet Improvised Acting, Dramatic Interpretation, & Duo Interpretation)

North Little Rock High School (1):

Skylar Acebedo (Impromptu Speaking)

Parkview Arts & Science Magnet High School (9):

Alli Clark-Hunt (Congressional Debate)
Cooper Mills (Congressional Debate)
Fiona McFarlane (Congressional Debate)
Ian Roberts (Congressional Debate)
Lilliann Stockton (Congressional Debate)
Micahel Hatfield (Congressional Debate)
Micaiah Gurel (Congressional Debate)
Rashid Shabazz (Public Debate)
Vivian Kincaid (Impromptu Speaking)

Rogers Heritage High School (7):

Audrey Price (Public Debate)
Bianca Calles (Public Debate)
Fischer LaPlant (Public Debate)
Oliver Borjorquez (Public Debate)
Sarah Pullen (Lincoln-Douglas Debate)
Tate Hernandez (Lincoln-Douglas Debate)
William Hernandez (Lincoln-Douglas Debate)

Russellville High School (14):

Allison Frazier (Extemporaneous Speaking & Original Oratory)
Arawen Nehus (Big Question Debate)
Asher Childers (Impromptu Speaking & Public Debate)
Chayney Melton (Congressional Debate)
Ella Clayton (Congressional Debate & Public Debate)
Lillianna McGraw (Public Forum Debate)
Maddy Gorman (Public Debate)
Madeline Clements (Congressional Debate)
Madison Mckown (Public Debate)
Mallory Cloud (Congressional Debate)
Noah Beaver (Congressional Debate & Duet Improvised Acting)
Seth Moore (Duet Improvised Acting)
Tessa Freeman (Public Forum Debate)
Zayd Acevedo (Extemporaneous Speaking)

Sylvan Hills High School (1):

Mark Smith (Congressional Debate)

The Academies at Jonesboro (8):

Bruce Perry (Congressional Debate)
Gage Smith (Congressional Debate)
Ganesh Nair (Congressional Debate, Extemporaneous Speaking, Impromptu Speaking, & Public Forum Debate)
Joe Young (Impromptu Speaking)
Spencer May (Congressional Debate)
Tallulah Gee (Impromptu Speaking)
William Hacker (Congressional Debate & Public Forum Debate)
Wyatt Stokes (Congressional Debate)

56th Arkansas Student Congress hosted at State Capitol

Zackery Tucker — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 03:56:44 GMT

November 10-12, the Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) hosted the 56th Arkansas Student Congress in Little Rock.

Arkansas Student Congress is the oldest model legislative event in the state. Established in 1968, the event provides a unique opportunity for both high school (House) and college (Senate) students to simulate the representative democratic process at a state-wide level. For over 50 years, ACTAA has hosted this tournament, which includes the opportunity for students to participate in mock party caucuses, committees, and floor debates over student-written legislation. On Sunday of the tournament, parties, caucuses, and committee meetings were held at an Episcopal Collegiate School in Little Rock. On Monday & Tuesday of the tournament, students debated original student legislation in committee chambers in the State Capitol Building.

The 2024 Arkansas Student Congress’ top delegates included:

Chance Bradford of Mills University Studies High School in Little Rock earned the Mary Ingalls Award in House III for exceptional knowledge and appropriate use of parliamentary procedure. Bradford also received excellent rankings in committee and superior rankings in caucus, parliamentary procedure, and floor debate; and was named the highest-scoring delegate from the Mills delegation.

Kendall Cloar of Little Rock Central High School earned the Mary Ingalls Award in House II for exceptional knowledge and appropriate use of parliamentary procedure. Cloar also received superior rankings in caucus, committee, parliamentary procedure, and floor debate and was named the highest-scoring delegate from the Little Rock Central delegation.

Michael Hatfield of Parkview Arts & Science Magnet High School in Little Rock earned the Mary Ingalls Award in House I for exceptional knowledge and appropriate use of parliamentary procedure. Hatfield also received superior rankings in caucus, committee, parliamentary procedure, and floor debate; and authored with fellow Parkview student Ian Roberts a Law of Student Congress–House Bill 113, “a bill to ban the advertising of prescription drugs to combat overprescribing in the United States.”

Aaron Oesterle of Har-Ber High School in Springdale was recognized as the highest-scoring delegate in House III. Oesterle also received superior rankings in parliamentary procedure and floor debate, where he was named the best overall floor delegate in House III; and authored House Bill 310, “a bill to reform school lunches and accessibility,” the second place best bill in House III.

Lillian Stockton of Parkview Arts & Science Magnet High School in Little Rock was recognized as the highest-scoring delegate of congress. Stockton received superior rankings in caucus, committee, parliamentary procedure, and floor debate; and authored with fellow Parkview student J’siah Thomas House Bill 208, “a bill to regulate homeschooling in Arkansas to protect child wellbeing,” the first place best bill in House II.

Winona Watson of Har-Ber High School earned the Melinda Milloway Valdez Award for being the highest-scoring delegate in House I. Watson was also elected clerk of House I and received superior rankings in caucus, committee, parliamentary procedure, and floor debate.

Max Green of the University of Arkansas earned the Mary Melekian Richardson Award for being the highest-scoring delegate in the Senate. Green also received superior rankings in caucus, committee, parliamentary procedure, and floor debate; and authored Senate Bill 403, “a bill recommending to the United States Congress to repeal the renewable fuel standard,” the first place best bill in the Senate.

Rainey Page of Arkansas State University earned the Marguerite Pearce Metcalf Award for exceptional knowledge and appropriate use of parliamentary procedure in the Senate. Page also received an excellent ranking in committee and superior rankings in caucus, parliamentary procedure, and floor debate.

The top high school delegations included Conway High School in third place, Parkview Arts & Science Magnet High School in second place, and Har-Ber High School in first place. While the top college delegations included the University of Central Arkansas in third place, Arkansas State University in second place, and the University of Arkansas in first place.

In model-party leadership, Rocco Hicks of Arkansas State University was elected Republican Party Leader, Ganesh Nair of the Academies at Jonesboro High School was elected Republican Party Secretary, Kevin Durden of the University of Arkansas was elected Democratic Party Leader, and William Hacker of the Academies at Jonesboro High School was elected Democratic Party Secretary.

In model-House leadership, Lex Gamble of Dardanelle High School was elected Speaker of House I, Winona Watson of Har-Ber High School, Clerk of House I, Matthew Collins of Episcopal Collegiate School, Speaker of House II, Emily Starkey of Har-Ber High School, Clerk of House II, Manvitha Narasimhan of Bentonville High School, Speaker of House III, and Addison Choate of Conway High School, Clerk of House III. In model-Senate leadership, Benjamin Shoptaw of the University of Arkansas was elected President Pro Tempore and Dice Ferguson of the University of Central Arkansas, Clerk,

Original student-written legislative awarded best bill by a blind attorney included: House Bill 108 authored by Willow Toney of Mills University Studies High School, “a bill to raise the felony charges of incest in Arkansas and allow victims of incest an abortion;” House Bill 208 authored by Lillian Stockton & J’siah Thomas of Parkview Arts & Science Magnet High School, “a bill to regulate homeschooling in Arkansas to protect child wellbeing;” House Bill 306 authored by Jonathan Sykes of Dardanelle High School, “a bill to reform prison labor systems and abolish prison slavery;” and Senate Bill 403 authored by Max Green of the University of Arkansas, “a bill recommending to the united states congress to repeal the renewable fuel standard.”

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Arkansas Student Congress Bill Book & Assignments Announced

Zackery Tucker — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 20:34:41 GMT

The Arkansas Student Congress Committee has announced the caucus, chamber, and committee assignments for the upcoming model legislative event, which is scheduled for Nov. 10-12.

Arkansas Student Congress is the oldest model legislative event in the state. Established in 1968, it provides a unique opportunity for both high school (House) and college (Senate) students to simulate the representative democratic process at a state-wide level. For over 50 years, the Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association has hosted this tournament, which includes the opportunity for students to participate in mock party caucuses, committees, and floor debates over student-written legislation.

Skordal named 2024 ACTAA Teacher of the Year.

Zackery Tucker — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 01:39:52 GMT

Jessica Skordal, speech & debate teacher at Bentonville West High School, was recently named Teacher of the Year by the Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA). Skordal was officially presented the award at the ACTAA’s annual Fall Conference on Petit Jean Mountain Sep. 19-21.

Skordal is a highly respected teacher with 10 years of experience in the communication classroom. An alumni of the Bentonville Schools, she currently serves as the Director of Speech & Debate for the students of Bentonville West High School. Skordal has studied political science, education, and leadership at the University of Arkansas. She received an MA in Secondary Education & Teaching.

Beck Greenway, a colleague from Bentonville High School, praises Skordal's significant contributions to the field of communication education in Arkansas. "Her passion for providing learning opportunities for students both in and out of the classroom, her role as a trusted servant, compassionate coach, and valued mentor, and her leadership in the state-wide community make her a true asset to Arkansas," reported Greenway at the presentation ceremony.

“Jessica is passionate about providing opportunities for the students of Arkansas to be transformed through communication education,” shared ACTAA President Zackery Tucker. “When students learn the critical skills to think for themselves, speak their passion, and act to serve others, they are equipped to transform their communities. Jessica's leadership is evidence of effective ethical communication as an essential discipline, life skill, and art form.”

Skordal’s leadership abilities benefit educators across Arkansas as she regularly leads professional development and serves ACTAA as its second vice president. Despite coaching one of the more nationally competitive speech & debate programs in the state, Skordal makes time to mentor other educators in speech & debate instruction.

As ACTAA Teacher of the Year, Skordal will be nominated by the association for the National Federation of State High Schools Association (NFHS) Outstanding Speech, Debate, & Theatre Educator award this winter.

ACTAA Honors Har-Ber Administrator.

Zackery Tucker — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 03:12:42 GMT

Dr. Paul Griep, principal of Har-Ber High School, was recently named Administrator of the Year by the Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA). Griep was officially presented the award at ACTAA’s annual Fall Conference on Petit Jean Mountain Sep. 19-21.

“Dr. Griep unwavering support, honesty, and integrity have been instrumental in fostering a thriving educational environment where both staff and students can excel,” shared Lauren Loehndorf, Har-Ber communication teacher, at the presentation ceremony. “His commitment to open dialogue, collaboration and listening models effective communication to our students; and his support for provided quality learning opportunities both in and out of the classroom evidences him as a champion for speech & debate.”

Under Dr. Griep’s leadership and support of co-curricular learning, programs like Har-Ber Speech & Debate have grown to be one of the more of the more nationally competitive speech & debate programs in the state.

ACTAA announces 2024-2025 Student Advisory Board for Speech & Debate in Arkansas.

Zackery Tucker — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 14:00:00 GMT

Eight high school student leaders from across the state have been selected to serve on the Arkansas Speech & Debate Student Advisory Board for the 2024-2025 academic year. The eight juniors and seniors were chosen for their outstanding leadership skills, achievements in academics and activities, and commitment to positively impacting their communities. The group will attend several meetings throughout the 2024-2025 academic year, being provided the opportunity to work with adult leadership of the Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) to grow leadership skills, bring youth perspectives to speech & debate, and support inter-program camaraderie and community within the Arkansas speech & debate high school circuit.

2024-2025 Student Advisory Board:

Kendall Cloar, Little Rock Central
Matthew Collins, Episcopal Collegiate
Emma Durham, Cabot
Allison Frazier, Russellville
Anthony Kong, Fayetteville
Manvitha Narasimhan, Bentonville
Gage Smith, Jonesboro
Winona Watson, Har-Ber

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Agenda set for annual membership meeting.

Zackery Tucker — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 21:31:37 GMT

ACTAA Leadership has called the annual general business meeting of the association for Saturday, Sep. 21 at 9:15 a.m. to take place in the Show Barn at the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute on Petit Jean Mountain as part of the annual Fall Conference, Sep 19-21.

The association's general business meeting is an annual opportunity for the membership will hear reports from officers & committees, vote on Proposed Rule & Governing Changes, and elect new members of the Nominations Committee.

Below is linked the agenda for the meeting.

General Business Meeting Agenda

Date Set for State Speech & Debate Tournament, May 2-3.

Zackery Tucker — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 12:30:00 GMT

The Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) has announced that the 2025 Arkansas Forensics & Debate State Championship Tournament will be held May 2-3 at Fayetteville High School.

Details about the Arkansas Forensics & Debate State Championship Tournament will be made available at actaa.org/state.

About ACTAA.

56th Arkansas Student Congress set for Nov. 10-12.

Zackery Tucker — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 12:00:00 GMT

Arkansas high schools and colleges are invited to send a student delegation to the 56th Arkansas Student Congress. This year’s Student Congress will be held at Episcopal Collegiate School (1701 Cantrell Road) and the Arkansas State Capitol Building (500 Woodlane Street) Sunday, November 10th to Tuesday, November 12th, 2024. Entry forms and bills must be submitted by Wednesday, September 25, 2024.

Arkansas Student Congress is the oldest model legislative event in the state. Established in 1968, the event provides a unique opportunity for both high school (House) and college (Senate) students to simulate the representative democratic process at a state-wide level. For over 50 years, ACTAA has hosted this tournament, which includes the opportunity for students to participate in mock party caucuses, committees, and floor debates over student written legislation. On Sundays of the tournament, parties, caucuses, and committee meetings are held at a chosen location in Little Rock. Monday & Tuesday of the tournament, students debate original student legislation on the House & Senate floor in the State Capitol Building.

More information about the competition and registration can be found at actaa.org/congress.

Fall 2024 Proposed Rule & Governing Changes

Zackery Tucker — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 04:09:56 GMT

UPDATED 08/28/2024

Ahead of the Fall Conference, Sep. 19-21, at Petit Jean Mountain, Executive Director Martene Campbell shares three proposed changes to the association's governing documents and competition rules for its activities.

Each year, members are able submit changes to ACTAA's government documents and competition rules for consideration for adoption at the organization's annual business meeting by the membership.

Proposed amendments for consideration at the General Membership Business Meeting on Saturday, September 21:

Proposal No 1. Amending the ASC Qualifying Tournament Document to add theatre events back to Arkansas competition. Submitted by Jenny Moses. Link to full proposal.
Proposal No 2. Amending the ASC Qualifying Tournament Document requiring the use of an ASC Committee developed tournament shell in Tabroom.com for all ACTAA-sanctioned tournaments. Submitted by Jessica Skordal. Link to full proposal.
Proposal No 3. Amending the ACTAA By-laws to allow the Board of Directors to make changes to the document outside of the annual general membership business meeting. Submitted by Zackery Tucker. Link to full proposal.
Proposal No. 4. Amending the Arkansas Student Congress By-laws to add a late drop fee, limit use of fall competition topics for bills, require use of committee provided placards and other minor edits for clarification. Submitted by the Arkansas Student Congress Committee. Link to full proposal.

For reference, below are links to the current versions of each document being proposed to be amended:

ACTAA By-laws (Proposal No 3.)
ASC Qualifying Tournament Document (Proposal No 1 & 2)

McCall and 14 other Arkansans advance at NSDA nationals.

Zackery Tucker — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 23:08:17 GMT

15 Arkansas students advanced elimination rounds at the National Speech & Debate Tournament hosted in Des Moines, Iowa, June 16–21, 2024.

Rachael McCall from Cabot Junior High North won first place in the Original Spoken Word Poetry in the middle school, becoming the first student from Arkansas to earn a national championship title at a National Speech & Debate Association national tournament (middle or high school) in state history

More than 6,700 students from 1,500 schools competed in the tournament, which is the largest speech & debate competition in the nation.

In addition to McCall, the following students advanced to elimination rounds at the tournament:

Nora Shitandi from Har-Ber High School advanced to semifinals in Original Oratory.
Emma Durham & Logan Hale James from Cabot High School advanced to the top 30 competitors in Duo Interpretation.
Nyasa Lovely from Russellville High School advanced to partial triple octofinals in Big Questions Debate.
Allison Frazier from Russellville High School advanced to octofinals in Extemporaneous Commentary.
Andrew Taylor from Don Tyson School of Innovation to quarterfinals in Extemporaneous Commentary.
Joie Willoughby from Little Rock Central High School to octofinals in Poetry.
Bryce Veasman from Cabot High School advanced to to quarterfinals in Original Spoken Word Poetry
Hayden Xavier Mittlestat from Cabot High School advanced to Extemporaneous Debate to round seven.
Sophie Moody from Fayetteville High School advanced to octofinals in Prose.
Grace Haverstick from Cabot Junior High North advanced to semifinals in Poetry.
Logan Campos from Cabot Junior High South advanced to semifinals in Humorous Interpretation.
Raygan Grindley from Cabot Junior High North advanced to quarterfinals in Dramatic Interpretation.
Kaden Buckner from Cabot Junior High South advanced to octofinals in and named tenth place speaker in Lincoln Douglas Debate.

55 Arkansans qualify for the National Speech & Debate Tournament.

Zackery Tucker — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 02:36:49 GMT

The National Speech & Debate Tournament marks the capstone of speech and debate activities for more than 140,000 members across the country. The student competitors represent the best and brightest young people across the United States and the globe. The tournament is hosted by the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA) June 16–21, 2024 in Des Moines, IA.

Competitors earned bids to qualify to participate in the National Speech & Debate Tournament through advancing to key elimination rounds at the NSDA Arkansas District Tournament and the national virtual Last Change Qualifier Tournament.

The following Arkansas students have earned bids to the National Speech & Debate Tournament in the 2023-2034 academic year:

https://www.tabroom.com/index/tourn/book.mhtml?tourn_id=29238

Tucker named national Outstanding Speech, Debate, & Theatre Educator.

Zackery Tucker — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 14:16:28 GMT

Tiffany Tucker, forensics & debate teacher at Cabot Junior High North, was named Outstanding Speech, Debate, & Theatre Educator by the National Federation of State High Schools Association (NFHS) on Jan. 14. Tucker was one of only 21 speech, debate & theatre educators to receive the award.

Tucker was officially presented the award at the Arkansas Forensics and Debate State Championships, which were hosted by the Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) at Central High School in Little Rock on April 12-13.

“I was so surprised to win this award,” Tucker said. “It is such an honor to be recognized by a national organization like the NFHS. I would not have been able to even be in the running for this without the wonderful support my colleagues and students of Cabot and ACTAA.”

A 2008 graduate of Cabot High School and former forensics student of Jane Morgan Balgavy, Tucker returned to her hometown in 2017 to teach/coach forensics & debate.

“Tiffany entered my classroom excited and energetic about forensics and debate and she's never lost that passion,” shared Balgavy. “It makes me so proud to see her thriving as a teacher, who is now a beloved mentor to so many. She's a working mom who dedicates her time and talent in helping others, and is so deserving of recognition. I know there will be many more students and teachers who are supported, taught and loved by Tiffany Tucker!”

“Mrs. Tucker truly embodies what it means to be a teacher in the arts. Not only has her endless knowledge had a huge impact on students in the academic setting, but her passion for speech and debate has given students a voice and purpose,” commented former student Logan Williams (‘23) on learning of Tucker’s national honor.

In September 2023, Tucker was named ACTAA Teacher of the Year and serves as the professional development coordinator for the state’s communication & theatre arts association.

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Newly installed president launches strategic planning process.

Zackery Tucker — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 14:28:31 GMT

Newly installed ACTAA President Zackery Tucker invites members to join in developing an action plan centered on four themes:

reflect on our purpose;
increase our impact;
expand our voice; and
increase our ability to adapt.

The purpose of the action plan is to focus association work and inspire conversations on how membership can contribute to achieving ACTAA's vision of a “future where every student In Arkansas has the opportunity to be transformed through participation in communication, debate, and theatre arts."

Full message: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vQTpw6JRVc

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Box-Higdem ends multi-year tenure as ACTAA President.

Zackery Tucker — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 14:14:21 GMT

At the Arkansas Forensics and Debate State Championships at Central High School in Little Rock on April 12-13, Bentonville theatre teacher Brandon Box-Higdem vacated his role as president of the state’s communication and theatre arts association after three years.

In addition to serving a traditional two-year term as president of the Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA), Box-Higdem accepted the position a year and a half early following the resignation of his predecessor due to medical concerns.

Under Box-Higdem’s leadership, the Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) underwent significant positive changes, including a rebranding, the adoption of core values, equity and vision statements, restructuring of the Board of Directors, and the association’s 501(c)3 status, setting a promising trajectory for the future.

“Providing more opportunities for underrepresented voices will be the hallmark of his tenure,” remarked incoming ACTAA President Zackery Tucker. “Brandon’s leadership has been focused on providing more opportunities for members to be engaged in the business of ACTAA and to highlight our state’s talented students.”

Since reorganizing as a speech and drama teachers’ organization in 1936, the presidential gavel passes leaders during the awards ceremony at the state tournament in April. Zackery Tucker, dean of students at Arkansas State University - Beebe, assumed a two-year term as ACTAA President at the ceremony.

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27 Named State Forensics & Debate Champions

Zackery Tucker — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 01:08:57 GMT

April 12-13, the Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) hosted 105th Arkansas Forensics and Debate State Championships at Central High School in Little Rock.

The state tournament included competition in twenty-five separate events, where students qualified for state competition through advancing to select elimination rounds in previous sanctioned invitational tournaments host throughout the 2023-2024 season.

The 2024 Arkansas State Champions are:

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66 Arkansans qualify for the national Tournament of Champions.

Zackery Tucker — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 21:00:00 GMT

The J.W. Patterson Tournament of Champions (TOC) is a national high school speech and debate tournament held at the University of Kentucky in Lexington April 20–22, 2024. TOC is considered one of the most prestigious and competitive American high school speech and debate tournaments.

Competitors earn bids to qualify to participate in the TOC through advancing to key elimination rounds at certain nationally competitive tournaments sanctioned by the TOC Advisory Committee.

The following Arkansas students have earned bids to the TOC in the 2023-2034 academic year:

Policy Debate:

Baker & Mills, Little Rock Central

Congressional Debate:

Manvitha Narasimhan, Bentonville
Samyukta Vimalraj, Bentonville
Matthew Collins, Episcopal Collegiate
Samuel Myers, Har-Ber
Kevin Durden, Little Rock Central

Dramatic Interpretation:

Ameya Nambiar, Bentonville West
Emma Durham, Cabot
Ja’i Dantzler, Conway
Scarlett Nelson, Episcopal Collegiate
Joie Willoughby, Little Rock Central
Violet Steward, Little Rock Central

Duo Interpretation:

Drewyor & Hall, Bentonville West
James & Durham, Cabot
Griggs & English, Har-Ber
Willoughby & Elkins, Little Rock Central

Extemporaneous Speaking:

Bhuvi Gopisetty, Bentonville
Coglin Dexter, Don Tyson
Andrew Taylor, Don Tyson
Carlos Pacheco, Har-Ber
Marlee Brown, Rogers Heritage
Allison Frazier, Russellville

Humorous Interpretation:

Jasmine Huerta, Bentonville
Karly Elliott, Cabot
Logan James, Cabot
Emily Freeman, Har-Ber

Informative Speaking:

Jasmine Huerta, Bentonville
Emanuel Diaz, Bentonville
Charlotte Cromer, Cabot
Aliza Hady, Dardanelle
Blake Mills, Dardanelle
Annie Zimmerman, Episcopal Collegiate
Skyler Hart, Har-Ber
Nora Shitandi, Har-Ber
Adrianna Cain, Morrilton

Oral Interpretation of Literature:

Reagan Hall, Bentonville West
Samuel Wylie, Cabot
Chloe Spearmon, Conway
Alexander Gamble, Dardanelle
Loriann Rettstatt, Har-Ber
Emily Freeman, Har-Ber
Joie Willoughby, Little Rock Central
Amy Okanume, Little Rock Central
Isabelle Elkins, Little Rock Central
Kynlee Little, Morrilton
Addison Edwards, Morrilton
Shiloh Mcdonald, Morrilton
Alexandra Lara, Russellville

Original Oratory:

Blake Mills, Dardanelle
Aarya Patel, Morrilton

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