Delaware Academy to Host New York State Forensics Tournament in April

Just as there are tournaments for high school sports teams, there are also state tournaments for speech and debate teams.

This year's New York State Forensics Tournament will be held in Delaware County at Delaware Academy in Delhi. About 1,000 students, grades 9-12 (from public, parochial and private schools), as well as 200 parents and chaperones will converge on the area April 5th and 6th. Their purpose? To be crowned New York State Forensics League Champions in one of the 16 categories.

The tournament has three levels: novice, intermediate, and varsity. The teams compete March through September to earn qualification for the state tournament.

Forensics is "the art of argumentation... with focus on how best to argue," explained Jennifer Stanton, a teacher at Delaware Academy and the coach for their team. She also stated: "For me as a teacher , this speaks to the heart of "Common Core". Much of what these students do is aligned with our Common Core Learning Standards, plus they develop the ability to communicate effectively while also gaining confidence."

Individuals and organizations seeking to provide support for this event may contact Jennifer Stanton or Superintendent Jason D. Thomson at (607)746-1281.

Ron Galley of CNY News spoke with Jennifer Stanton about the event: