Decorah High School Wins the Sweepstakes Award by the Iowa High School Speech Association

Your financial contribution empowers watchdog reporting that protects and informs us all. DECORAH — At the IHSSA All-State Large Group Festival, held on February 22 at the Iowa State Center in Ames, Decorah High School won the prestigious E. Wayne Cooley Sweepstakes Award, given to the school with the most entries performing at the All-State Festival. Decorah previously earned this recognition in 2002 and 2005. 133 Iowa high schools had groups selected as "Outstanding All-Staters" at the 50th anniversary of the All-State Large Group Festival. Approximately 24,000 students started at the district level from 484 school memberships, and approximately 2000 students earned the right to be named as Outstanding All-State Nominees. DHS speech students are coached by Molly Holkesvik, Gabriel Twedt, Carrie Kauffman, Lyra McKnight, Kristen Underwood and Johanna Bergan. They remarked, "We are over the moon with pride regarding this recognition of our students and program. Many long hours of preparation, practice, and collaboration have gone into creating art that resonates with spectators and judges. Our students are incredible, and this is a testament to all 130 or so who participated in the Decorah large group speech program this year." "We would also like to extend our gratitude to our community, parents, school district, and the Decorah Performing Arts Boosters for the continued support we have been given in order to build a successful program." "Stay informed, stay inspired! Newsletter sign up is free and join hundreds of free subscribers who rely on DecorahNews.com for trusted information and fresh perspectives.