District 196 honors national speech and debate finalists and district communications work

The Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan (District 196) school board on July 13 recognized students and staff for national achievements in speech and debate and district communications. Coach Chris McDonald introduced Tristan Wynn and Josiah Schaffhausen, Eagan High School's policy debate team that finished as national runners-up at the National Speech & Debate Association tournament in Richmond, Virginia. "It is my privilege to present to you the national runners up in policy debate," McDonald said, noting the team advanced through 16 rounds and that Eagan earned the School of Outstanding Distinction award for combined debate and speech performance.

Apple Valley director of speech and debate Scott Voss introduced four national finalists from Apple Valley High School, including national champions Maham Mahaab (oral interpretation) and Isra Yacine (original oratory). Voss highlighted students' tournament topics and postsecondary plans, saying Apple Valley had four national finalists and tied for the most finalists among public schools at the event.

The board also recognized the district's communications work. Director of communications Janet Swachikowski said multimedia specialist Cliff Dodge produced a personal-finance video that earned a national award of merit and a 12-part video series, "Technology in Our Schools," that won a national award of excellence from the National School Public Relations Association. Swachikowski said the series, used to communicate the 2025 technology levy, drew more than 169,000 views and about 6,000,000 minutes of watch time on social platforms and YouTube and will be featured at the NSPRA national seminar in New Orleans.

Chairperson Johnson and the board congratulated the students and staff; no board action was required beyond recognition.