High school speech and debate competitors from around Montana, including Ronan and Polson, converged on Corvallis High School Jan. 30-31 for the Montana Class A Speech and Debate State Competition.

The top 12 speakers from each event in Eastern Montana and from Western Montana divisional competitions continued on to the state meet. Students arrived dressed to the nines carrying briefcases, portfolios, blankets, bags and coolers.

Speaking events are original oratory, extemporaneous speaking, impromptu, memorized public address, informative, and interpretation (humorous, dramatic, and duo). Debate events are Lincoln Douglas, policy and public forum.

Lauren Feese, head speech coach in Ronan, said her school is in a rebuilding year since all their seniors graduated last year. “All of the speech coaches just want each kid to do well,” she added.

Polson’s new head speech coach, McKennah Andrews, said her program is also in rebuilding mode, with five students who qualified for the state tournament.

“Going to state was a good experience,” she said, adding that the competition from the eastern side of the state was tough, but PHS speakers had some great rounds.

With quality upperclassmen returning as well as a group of outstanding freshman, she’s “expecting good things for next year.”

Feese said she’s seen growth on her team and is also looking forward to the 2026-27 season.