[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 23 (Tuesday, February 9, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E151]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      KINGWOOD HIGH SCHOOL AT THE PAN AMERICAN DEBATE CHAMPIONSHIP

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                              HON. TED POE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 9, 2016

  Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, the Kingwood High School Debate team 
has been invited to compete at the Pan American Schools Debate 
Championships in Vancouver, Canada on March 16th, 2016. The competition 
is organized by the Pan-American Debate Organization (PADO) and aims 
``to promote debate in the Americas, and to encourage high school 
students to participate in international competitions.''
  Members of Team Kingwood include Morgan Lee, junior; Reese Grayson, 
senior; Colette Faulkner, junior--also the designated alternate to Team 
USA; Connor Smith, junior; Gaurav Gawankar, junior. The team is coached 
by Audra and Jason Langston. These students will not only be 
representing their high school, but the state of Texas as well. As they 
enter the competition, the Texas students will face competitors 
representing Argentina, Bermuda, Canada, Chile, Mexico, Peru, USA and 
Venezuela. The Kingwood team will be the only team that will represent 
a high school, rather than a country.
  The principles of open debate have long been a lifeblood to our 
democracy. Society is shaped every day by open conversation, public 
opinion and debate. The great debaters, men like Patrick Henry, Daniel 
Webster, and John C. Calhoun shaped American society, bringing 
democracy to a new born nation. Debaters like Margaret Thatcher broke 
barriers, improved economies, and shaped their countries' policies for 
an entire generation. Great Debaters are leaders who have had an impact 
on our society.
  These students have taken the first step towards becoming future 
leaders. Debate teaches students how to speak both powerfully and 
persuasively, fosters critical thinking, and how to defend their point 
of view. As a former debater, Judge and Congressman, I know that it's 
important to learn how to make a point.
  Congratulations to the Kingwood Debate team. Good luck at the Pan 
American Championships.
  And that is just the way it is.

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