(PUEBLO, Colo.) — Central High School in Pueblo has been selected to host the 2024 State Speech and Debate Tournament by the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA). The event will take place over two days, starting Friday, Feb. 23. Nearly 450 students from 40 schools across Colorado have qualified and are expected to participate in the event.

“Central is known for its Latino culture, cuisine, and charm,” said Phil Gomez, the speech and debate coach at Central, who collaborated with CHSAA to bring the tournament to Pueblo. “And when you combine that Latino culture with the heritage at Central, it’s the ideal location for this state event.”

Rashaan Davis, Assistant Commissioner of CHSAA, stated that District 60’s focus on education-based participation was another factor in the decision to bring the tournament to Pueblo. He remarked, “Whether we are working with district staff or individual building leaders, we know that they are working toward the very same core values that CHSAA hopes to see in every Colorado school. I hope that this is the beginning of a series of CHSAA activities for the D60 community to host.”

The awards ceremony for the winners will be held on Saturday evening.