The South Dallas Gilliam Debaters went head to head against 5th graders at a recent debate tournament in Atlanta -- and came home as champions!
They've been working toward this moment for seven months under the watchful eye and guidance of an award-winning U.S. attorney turned college professor.
"I write to share the extraordinary work of my colleague, law professor and renowned civil rights attorney Cheryl Wattley as the debate coach for the debate team at Kathlyn Gilliam Academy. This effort is perfect for the Wake Up to Something Good segment," Angela Downes, Professor of Law and Assistant Director of Experiential Education at UNT Dallas College of Law, wrote to NBC 5 in an email.
"Twice a week since last October, Prof. Wattley have been coaching a 3rd grade debate team from various south Dallas schools," wrote Downes. The students had never participated in any activity remotely like public speaking. A couple of students were so shy and timid that it took weeks for them to stand up and say their names."
By the end of May, not only could they stand up and proudly say their names, they were ready to debate!Every morning, NBC 5 Today is dedicated to delivering you positive local stories of people doing good, giving back and making a real change in our community.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Anti-Gun Billionaire Michael Bloomberg Funds Backing Sheri Biggs in South Carolina’s 3rd DistrictSource of breaking news and analysis, insightful commentary and original reporting, curated and written specifically for the new generation of independent and conservative thinkers.
Read more »
3rd try at approving recreational marijuana in South Dakota makes the ballotSouth Dakota voters will decide again on whether to legalize recreational marijuana
Read more »
3rd try at approving recreational marijuana in South Dakota makes the ballotSouth Dakota voters will decide again on whether to legalize recreational marijuana. Secretary of State Monae Johnson’s office on Monday validated the measure for the November general election ballot. It will be the third time South Dakota voters have weighed in on the question.
Read more »
South Carolina's Baseball Team Has Options At 3rd Base Heading Into NCAA TournamentAfter dealing with both injury and performance issues in the SEC Tournament, what could South Carolina's baseball team and staff do at 3rd base?
Read more »
2024 Men's College World Series Regionals preview: Odds, picks and more for college baseball postseasonCharges against Scottie Scheffler officially dropped after his arrest at the PGA Championship
Read more »
Birmingham-Southern College folds, but baseball team very much alive and headed to College World SeriesDavid K. Li is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital.
Read more »