Jefferson talks, argues, debates its way to State third

By Chick Bruce, contributing reporter

January 29, 2024

f7c27d90ac418ace998c65ebc70f413a — Jefferson High’s speech and debate team displays its third-place plaque. From left, Natalie Russ, Abby Miller, Luke Mest, Jack Johnson and Laci Lemons. Back row: coaches Scott Ferguson and Kayla Fesitner.

Jefferson High School’s Speech and Debate team made a statement at the 2024 MHSA state competition in Choteau Jan. 26 and 27, taking home third place out of 49 Class B and C schools.

The finish was impressive, given that the Panthers sent just five students to the competition — giving it fewer opportunities to earn points.

But the senior team of Luke Mest and Jack Johnson took second in the Public Forum event. Abby Miller and Laci Lemons, also seniors, placed third in Informative and Impromptu Speaking, respectively. And their freshman teammate Natalie Russ was 16th in Lincoln-Douglas Debate.