Norman High School junior Brogan Jones has been selected by the National Speech & Debate Association to represent the United States as a member of the USA Development Debate Team, a highly competitive opportunity for the nation's top emerging debaters.

Since 2013, the National Speech & Debate Association has been responsible for selecting and supporting the USA Debate Team, which represents the United States in international debate competition. The program promotes free and civil discourse, international cooperation and education, competitive excellence and national pride.

As a member of the USA Development Debate Team, Jones will have opportunities to represent the United States at some of the most rigorous debate competitions across the country during the upcoming year.

Jones' selection is a significant achievement and reflects his dedication to competitive debate and his continued development as a debater.

"Brogan's selection to the USA Development Debate Team is an incredible accomplishment and a testament to the countless hours of work, preparation and dedication he has put into debate," Director of Speech and Debate at Norman High School Morgan Brown said. "This is an extremely coveted opportunity, and I cannot overemphasize its esteem. Brogan will have the opportunity to represent the United States at some of the most rigorous competitions in the country, and we are incredibly proud of him and all the work it has taken for him to achieve this."

"Opportunities like this demonstrate the power of fine arts education to develop students who are confident communicators, critical thinkers and engaged citizens," Norman Public Schools Director of Fine Arts Dr. Evelyn Kwanza said. "Brogan's selection is a tremendous accomplishment, and we are proud to see a Norman Public Schools student representing our district and our country through the art and discipline of debate."

The USA Debate program features an accomplished coaching staff with extensive experience in World Schools Debate. Coaches work with selected debaters to develop their skills and acclimate them to the format, preparing students for high-level competition and international debate.

Jones' selection adds to the accomplishments of Norman High's debate program and highlights the opportunities for Norman Public Schools students to compete and excel at the highest levels in academic activities.

Norman Public Schools congratulates Jones on his selection to the USA Development Debate Team and wishes him continued success as he represents the United States in competition.