CONCORD — Concord-Carlisle High School’s speech and debate team has received the National Speech & Debate Association’s 2026 100 Club Award.
According to Dr. Laurie Hunter, superintendent of Concord Public Schools and the Concord-Carlisle Regional School District, the award recognizes students’ achievements in competition, leadership, and service during the 2025-26 school year.
In its award letter, the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA) credited the team with at least 139 strength points last year, which earned the team membership in the 100 Club. Dr. Hunter said students earn NSDA Honor Society points and degrees through competition, leadership, and service, which contribute to the school’s overall “strength points.”
Founded about eight years ago, the Concord-Carlisle High School Speech & Debate Team has grown from two students in its early days to about 30 students who now attend twice-weekly meetings.
Superintendent Hunter said the debate team’s coach, Tim Averill and families have been instrumental in the club’s growth since its early days.
“Parents Charles and Shannon Babu have helped organize tournaments and coordinate with participating families,” Superintendent Hunter said. “Many tournaments also depend on parents to serve as volunteer judges.”
Student leaders have also helped develop the newly formed Concord Middle School debate club. Last school year, Class of 2026 graduate Evan Moffitt helped lead the high school team while mentoring middle schoolers. Students Moffitt mentored are now captains of the high school team, Superintendent Hunter added.
“Our students put a great deal of time into preparing for tournaments, and they also make time to help younger students learn,” Superintendent Hunter said. “We’re proud of what they have accomplished and grateful to the coaches, advisers and families who make this program possible.”
