Schools

Summit Dad Makes Strong Case for Additional Forensics Funding

David Melka asked the Board to look at cost on a per-student basis and consider the team's level of success and participation compared with other programs.

Summit dad David Melka told the Board of Education Thursday evening that when most people think of forensics they imagine things being cut open, but Summit High School's Forensics Team is all about building in the form of crafting persuasive arguments and compelling speeches. 

Melka told the Board that the program has "grown dramatically" to include 70 students. Led by Anne Poyner, whom Melka referred to as "an amazing lady," students have flourished and developed "excellent skill sets." 

According to its website, "Each year the Summit forensics team competes in at least seven tournaments prior to the NJFL District tournament. The team regularly places in the top three at every tournament. This past year, the team won six sweepstakes trophies and 80 individual trophies. The team has qualified students for the National Forensic League National Tournament the past nine years, claiming three NFL National finalists."

Despite their success, Melka said, when compared with other programs such as athletics, the team's financial backing is sparse. Parents are asked to drive students to debates and volunteer as judges, added Melka, who noted that parents of student athletes aren't asked to drive players to games or contribute toward paying referees' fees. 

Melka said Poyner's $6,000 stipend isn't enough to hire a debate coach, something that would enhance the team. While the Summit Educational Foundation has supported the group, Melka asked the Board to "respectfully consider" additional funding for the team as it develops the budget.

The Board said it would give thought to Melka's request as the budget process is currently underway. 


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