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:

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

###

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 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.

###

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:

----

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.

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.

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 and debate competition in Arkansas.

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.”

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 and debate competition in Arkansas.

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.

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 and debate competition in Arkansas.

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/.

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:

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)

###

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!

Register today at actaa.org/camp.