September 19, 2024

The Plano East Speech and Debate program can add another recognition to its decorated list of accomplishments.

Out of more than 3,000 schools nationwide, the Panthers ranked 47th in the National Speech & Debate Association's Top 100 Schools for the 2023-24 school year. Plano East ranked high thanks to the number of students participating and the degrees they earned through competition, leadership and service. This is the most prestigious membership award the Association bestows upon a school.

Image of 2023-24 Plano East Speech and Debate team.

Students earn Honor Society points and degrees based on participation, which improves a school's strength points. Because Plano East reached the 428 point mark, the program also earned membership in the Association's 400 Club, demonstrating outstanding commitment to teaching students life skills such as communication, research, listening, writing and organization.

Congratulations to the team and Coach Madison Gackenbach from all of us at Plano ISD for this tremendous achievement!