LBUSD Migrant Education Students Shine at Regional Speech and Debate Tournament

Students from the Migrant Education Program (MEP) at Long Beach Unified School District were recognized for their outstanding achievements at the Los Angeles County Office of Education’s 8th annual Migrant Education Program Regional Speech and Debate Tournament on Saturday, March 14. Nearly 100 students from Districts across Southern California participated, and our LBUSD students competed in both individual and extemporaneous speech and debate.  

Students in grades 6 through 12 from our Migrant Education Program participated in challenging sessions in both English and Spanish, bringing enthusiasm and dedication to each round. Over the past three months, these remarkable students devoted themselves to preparing for the tournament, demonstrating commitment and perseverance.

And their efforts paid off.

Our LBUSD MEP earned an impressive 26 individual trophies, placing from 1st through 3rd. The English High School Debate Team also achieved 1st place for the third year in a row. Through their dedication and talent, our students have further developed their research, writing, and public speaking skills.

We are proud to share that ten LBUSD MEP students, five from high school debate and five from individual speech, will represent Los Angeles County at the State Speech and Debate Tournament in Monterey, California, from May 1 to 3, 2026. Last year, the English High School Debate Team earned 1st place among 21 regions statewide.

This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to our students' academic preparedness and perseverance, as well as the unwavering dedication of our educators, staff, and families.

Congratulations to our Migrant Education Program students on this well-deserved achievement!