John Tyler High School senior Sheldon McGowan has qualified to compete in the Congressional Debate-House division at the 2015 National Speech & Debate Tournament set to take place in Dallas June 14 through 19. The National Speech & Debate Tournament is the largest academic competition in the world.

“It is an amazing accomplishment to qualify for Nationals,” McGowan said. “Being the first student in the history of John Tyler to accomplish this feat is an honor. The debate team has helped me in so many ways and I am ready to take the nation by surprise. I am thankful for the encouragement and support of my team mates, my coach, my administration and our District. I am proud to represent Tyler ISD.”

To attend, students must place among the top competitors at one of 110 district tournaments across the country. Qualifiers will compete for college scholarships in one of 11 main events — Policy Debate, Lincoln-Douglas Debate, Public Forum Debate, Congressional Debate-House, Congressional Debate-Senate, Original Oratory, United States Extemporaneous Speaking, International Extemporaneous Speaking, Humorous Interpretation, Dramatic Interpretation and Duo Interpretation, as well as seven consolation and supplemental events.

“Our debate team is quickly growing here at John Tyler and the activity provides amazing opportunities to our students,” speech and debate coach April Caldwell said. “Speech and debate teaches students to communicate effectively, increases their critical thinking and reading skills and helps them improve self-esteem while building friendships.

“Our administrative team here at John Tyler has given us the support to expand our academic programs and the encouragement to succeed.”