What a lively debate the Arcadia Rotarians had with the Arcadia High School Constitution Team! The Constitution team was formed in 1988 and took Dirk and Sharon Hudson down memory lane as they recalled how they daughter was on the team back in 1992. Under the leadership of Advisor Meghan Leahy, the Constitution Team has won the local and State Championship and is now headed to Washington, D.C. for the National Championship.
One of the Constitution Team members participated in the Four Way Speech Test and put out a request for donations to the team’s trip for the National Championship and the Arcadia Rotary Foundation rose to the challenge, as usual. Frank Hall made a donation on behalf of the Foundation for $1,000 to help cover the team’s travel costs.
The Rotarians were treated to a taste of what the students will encounter at the competition through a presentation by 5 team members on the political and historical aspects of the Constitution in reference to power. Each member of the team gave their perspective on various parts of the Constitution and then were asked questions by their advisor. The 15-20 hours per week these students spend practicing was evident as they thoughtfully answered each question. Then, when the Rotarians took to the mic and asked some questions of their own, the discourse got very lively. it was clear why only 30 students out of the 150 students who tried out, were picked for the Constitution Team. These students know their stuff!