PHS Debate Season in Full-Swing

Debate is more than just a class.  Debate is a way to learn to think, learn and communicate in a way that most people don’t.  Debate is a way to get involved with other students and the Payson community.  Debate is a way to be knowledgeable about the world around you.  Debate has helped change me to be a better citizen.

Last year Ms. Ralph started practice tournaments called “Payson Practices” where the debaters compete against their teammates.  A “Payson Practice” is different from a normal tournament though, instead of picking one debate and a speech/individual event, all of the debaters are required to participate in all of the events, debate and speech.  Preparing for all of the events, and competing in them, broadens what the team is capable of, instead of focusing on one or two events.  This year the team has gone to Timpview High School Tournament, Salem Hills Smackdown, and three Payson Practices. Many students have received rewards, in recognition of their hard work.

Payson debate team decorated and donated a Christmas tree to fundraise for families in the community. The team has grown together and has accomplished admirable things, for the community, and themselves.  The following students are in debate this year:  Analee Finbres, Baylee Moreno, Megan Snow, Cesar Valencia, Ali Bufton, Tayler Spanheimer, Jacob Buckner, Kimberly Hammons, Hope, Adams, Crystal Turner, Andy Salazar, Bethany Clark, Braedon Watson, Jake Fuhriman, Brookelyn Chapman, Ryley Liston, Catherine Havens, Ariane Keele, Maygan Stright, Jessica Bastean (Junior President), Nici Marshall, Adam Pullan, Brittlyn Robinson, Leigh Ann Stowe, Heather Reid (Junior President), Mariah Manookin, Garson Schulz, Alexis Cortez (Senior President), Brigham Flint, Zion Jaussi. I would highly recommend for everyone to take a debate class.