Akins students of the debate team Joe Lozano and Carolyn Hutcherson participated in the Optimist International Club Oratorical Competition at the Manchaca Optimist Club.

They both placed 1st in the boys and girls divisions of the contest and have the chance to win up to 500 dollars towards a scholarship upon acceptance to a university or college.

Both students will be moving on to the next level of competition after winning in their respected division.

They are both eligible to win up to 5000 dollars in scholarship money in these higher levels of competition.

“It’s very exciting to be able to have this opportunity of competing in this debate competition and the money I can earn is a cool bonus.” Junior Joe Lozano said.

This is not the first time that Akins will be represented in this competition as the school participated in this event last year.

“I am very proud of this team every member has worked very hard and it is very exciting because many of these students have only been here for one year. They have had to learn all the skills of debate and have learned to compete. They are all very talented and I am hopeful they will advance far so that they can earn the 5000 dollar scholarships they deserve.” Akins Debate teacher Jesus Valles said.

If you see any of the debate team members be sure to congratulate them on their accomplishments this year.