Jacob Kaplan, a junior at Hood River Valley High School, earned an Academic All American Award from the National Speech and Debate Association in March.
Jacob Kaplan, a junior at Hood River Valley High School, earned an Academic All American Award from the National Speech and Debate Association in March.
Jacob Kaplan, a junior at Hood River Valley High School, earned an Academic All American Award from the National Speech and Debate Association in March.
This award recognizes high school students who have earned the degree of Superior Distinction in the Honor Society of the NSDA, achieved rigorous criteria for GPA, and demonstrated outstanding character and leadership on their team, in school, and in their community. Fewer than 2 percent of members in the national organization earn the award each year, said a press release.
Kaplan, who competes in multiple types of speech and debate events and served as a team captain this year hopes to further his education after high school to become a pediatrician.
“Speech and debate is important to me because it helps me raise awareness about issues such as gun violence, teen suicide, and hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community. I’ve made lifelong friends through speech, all while becoming a better speaker and better person,” said Kaplan.
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