Hialeah-Miami Lakes Senior High School’s debate team placed first in the Miami-Dade Urban Debate League contest on government policy, held Sept. 13 at Miami Dade College’s North Campus and sponsored by the Shubin Law Group. Magnet Lead and Social Studies Department Chair Michelle Simón said the team has participated in the Urban Debate League since 2023 and have qualified and competed in national competitions.
“This year, Nationals will take place at Harvard University and my students have their eyes set on the prize!” Simón said in an email. New debaters enter in the novice category while those with more experience compete at the varsity level. Judges review the kids’ research, public speaking and advocacy skills; preparation, critical thinking and teamwork. In the photo, from left: Jayden Sampedro, 9th grade; Anastasia Riley, 12th grade; Brianna Saint, president, Miami-Dade Urban Debate League; Debate Team Captain Isaura Valdez, 10th grade; Jayden Rodriguez, 9th grade; Alejandra Caballero, 9th grade; Geonni Dalien, 9th grade; Genash Dalien, 12th grade; Kenneth Herencia, 10th grade; Brian Hing, 9th grade; Lis Marrero, 9th grade; Sophia Alvarez, 9th grade; Violeta Noriega, 9th grade; Jaendra Eubanks, 9th grade and Coach Michelle Simón.