After leading Garland High School’s orating team to excellence for nine years, it comes as no surprise that speech and debate coach Lory Stewart is receiving national acclaim. The highly praised teacher and mentor received the National Speech & Debate Association’s Diamond Award, making Stewart a two-time honoree.
“A Diamond Award recognizes a professional career that combines excellence and longevity,” states a written press release. “The Association provides diamond awards based on coach points received. Coaches receive one-tenth the points earned by their students.”
After a minimum of five years as an Association member, a coach who attains 1,500 points is awarded their first Diamond Award. Additional Diamonds are awarded to coaches who double their points every five years. Stewart racked up 4,509 points in March, granting her a second Diamond Award.
“It is very exciting and meaningful to earn my second Diamond because this is a direct result of my student’s success,” Stewart commented. “According to the Association, Garland High School ranks in the top three and a half percent in the nation.”
With such an impressive standing, the team’s list of victories is no surprise. This year alone, GHS became home to a Texas Forensic Association state champion, two UIL state qualifiers and the first-ever National Speech & Debate Association national qualifier.
“My hopes for the next five years include continuing to have more state and national qualifiers,” Stewart explained. “Next year, we have our largest team ever, with 52 competitors in varsity. It is a very exciting time for Garland High School speech and debate. We are very fortunate to have the support of Principal Atticus Wisener, Fine Arts Director George Jones and GISD administration.”