The Cumberland High School Dukes speech team traveled to Galileo Magnet High School on February 28, 2026, to compete in forensics competition. The Dukes competed against other teams throughout the A and B Regions and the team earned a third-place finish overall. Team members receiving awards included the following:
1st Place Finishers:
• Alana Jackson and Jy’Asia Jackson – for Serious Duo Interpretation
2nd Place Finishers:
• Peyton Turner – for Impromptu Speaking
• Victor Cruz – for Prose Interpretation
3rd Place Finisher:
• Kaitlynne Kelsey – for Original Oratory
• Sarah Sargent – for Storytelling
4th Place Finisher and State Alternate:
• Elena Salamo – for Extemporaneous Speaking
• Hailey Frank – for Storytelling
Next the CHS Dukes speech team went to the State Speech Tournament in Salem on March 28, 2026. After several rounds of competition, the Dukes earned top places, including the following:
State Champions:
• Alana Jackson and Jy’Asia Jackson – for Serious Duo Interpretation
3rd Place Medalist:
• Peyton Turner – for Impromptu Speaking
• Victor Cruz – for Prose Interpretation
4th Place Medalist:
• Kaitlynne Kelsey – for Original Oratory
5th Place Medalist:
• Sarah Sargent – for Storytelling
The team members were recognized by the Cumberland School Board at the meeting held on April 9, 2026.
Pictured:
Members of the speech team who were present and recognized at the School Board meeting included Charles Haigh (coach), Peyton Turner, Victor Cruz-Araujo, Sarah Sargent, Alana Jackson-Lewis, and Joseph Haigh (Manager).