Harrisonburg debate team wins state championship as city honors educators

In the heart of Harrisonburg, the City School Board gathered on a warm May evening, celebrating achievements and recognizing the vital roles that educators and specialists play in the community. The atmosphere buzzed with pride as members acknowledged the remarkable accomplishments of local students and staff.

The meeting kicked off with a spotlight on the Harrisonburg High School debate team, where students Lydia King and Ayanna Thornton were celebrated for their outstanding performance at the Virginia High School League's state debate competition. The duo not only clinched first place in public forum debate but did so undefeated against five competing teams. Their achievement, described as "unheard of" at the state level, drew applause and admiration from board members and attendees alike.

As the evening progressed, the focus shifted to May's observances: National Speech Language Hearing Month and Mental Health Awareness Month. Miss Duncan, the lead speech language pathologist, took the podium to highlight the essential services provided by her team. She emphasized the importance of communication in education and the significant impact of speech language pathologists in fostering literacy and confidence among students facing speech and hearing challenges. With a dedicated team serving around 400 students, Duncan urged continued support for inclusive practices and the vital contributions of specialists in schools.

Chloe Jurlinski, coordinator for Student Support Services, followed with a discussion on mental health awareness. She noted the exceptional mental health support available within Harrisonburg City Schools, including a full team of counselors dedicated to student well-being. Jurlinski encouraged the community to wear green ribbons in support of mental health awareness, reinforcing the importance of mental wellness in educational settings.

The meeting also celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week, with a proclamation from Governor Glenn Youngkin recognizing the invaluable role teachers play in shaping the future. Board members expressed gratitude for the dedication and hard work of educators, emphasizing that teachers are at the center of student success. Dr. Blosser, Chief Officer for Instruction, shared heartfelt reflections on the profound impact teachers have on their students, highlighting their multifaceted roles as mentors and motivators.

Additionally, the board acknowledged National School Principals Day, recognizing the crucial leadership principals provide in fostering positive learning environments. The meeting concluded with a collective appreciation for the educators and specialists who tirelessly support students, families, and each other in the Harrisonburg community.

As the evening wrapped up, the sense of unity and commitment to educational excellence resonated throughout the room, leaving attendees inspired and hopeful for the future of Harrisonburg's schools.