Salem Keizer duo Colin and Matthew achieve historic We the People victory

In a vibrant gathering at the Salem-Keizer School Board meeting on February 11, 2025, the spotlight shone brightly on two remarkable students, Colin and Matthew, who have made history in the We The People program. Their journey began in 2019, but like many initiatives, it faced hurdles due to the pandemic and resource limitations. Despite these challenges, the duo took it upon themselves to revive the program, creating an independent study class to tackle the rigorous curriculum of six units.

With determination and a passion for constitutional law, Colin and Matthew prepared an impressive array of twelve speeches, each four minutes long, culminating in a competitive format that included a question-and-answer session with judges. Their efforts were not just ambitious; they were unprecedented. They became the first two-person team in the program's nearly four-decade history to attempt such a feat, a challenge many deemed impossible.

Their hard work culminated in a remarkable performance at the state level, where they placed second, a significant achievement considering the competitive landscape dominated by larger teams from the Portland metro area. This success earned them a wild card invitation to the national competition in Washington, D.C., where they will represent Salem-Keizer and Sprague in April.

The board meeting also celebrated the broader impact of their achievement, highlighting how Colin and Matthew have inspired their peers and ensured the continuation of advanced constitutional law studies in their district. Their story serves as a testament to the power of resilience and civic engagement, illustrating how students can rise to challenges when given the right support.

As the meeting progressed, the celebration of Black History Month was marked by a performance from the Hauck concert choir, further enriching the evening's themes of community and achievement. The school board expressed pride in the accomplishments of its students, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and nurturing talent within the district.

Colin and Matthew's journey not only showcases their individual dedication but also sets a legacy for future generations, proving that with passion and perseverance, extraordinary achievements are within reach.