MS 158 Students will go to Harvard!!

Do you remember what newspaper is all about? School news obviously, but putting that aside you also might be wondering what Harvard, one of the most prestigious schools in the world, has to do with our school.

Well, students from our school are going to HARVARD! If you take my statement at face value that seems insane, middle school students are going to Harvard, that sounds like something that should be in the actual news, not our school. But, their achievements are not exactly that, but are still huge. They’re going to Harvard for debate, last year they had an incredible run, they were 3rd overall and probably have a plethora of medals, and you know what's better? It was their FIRST year! That is an insurmountable achievement.

Now you're probably wondering who these superstar students are, these knights of the Cougars debate team are Avery Fong (the debate captain) and Cedar Kurz. These two, and last year's debate members, have not only made 3rd overall but they made it to Harvard! I still can’t even describe how huge of an achievement that is, it's of an unfathomable size, think of the biggest thing you can think of and multiply it by two. Okay enough shenanigans, more information heavy things now.

Everyone in the district, from the superintendents to the deputy superintendents,  to the AP’S in the school are very excited and proud that students at 158 have the chance to advance this level of debating. The distinct is cheering both Avery and Cedar from the sidelines.

The next tournament for the both of them is on November 21st, the topic for this debate is about Student Loans, both of them lean on the con side. They have to argue both sides which is hard and impressive. The topics they last researched and debated on were, Executive Orders, AI in schools, and Nuclear power plants.  For the next tournament they have more freedom in their arguments which allows them to debate even better. However, the debate at Harvard is much more rigorous. The constraints are much more strict with an open format and you aren't allowed to use your computer. This Harvard debate is during February break (President’s weekend).

Preparation is the most important thing for them since they need to anticipate what the other side would use against them or find something that would go against their opponent's other side the best. They typically get one month to prepare their argument. This month of practice includes preparing their counterclaims, planning their crossfire, and trying to prepare for everything the other people could say or do.

             Now you may be wondering how these kids are commuting all the way to Boston. Well, they are getting there through a bus provided, from the school, or their parents will be driving them.

Overall, everyone is very proud of these two amazing students and we are all wishing them well!