VERGENNES — Alyse Beauchemin was the winner of the Vergennes Union High School American Legion Constitutional Speech Contest held at Post # 14 on Saturday, Jan. 28. Beauchemin is a senior and two-time state winner from Vergennes Union High School. This accomplishment earned her a monetary award and the right to compete at the District 1 Oratorical Contest hosted by the Middlebury American Legion Post # 27 on Feb. 12, at 11:30 a.m.
Four students representing VUHS, Rice Memorial High School, Lake Champlain Waldorf School and Mount Abraham Union High School are expected to compete at the District 1 contest.
The Prepared Oration, “Amendment 6: Equality Under the Law” earned VUHS junior Mason Charlebois second place, and Adelaide Brooks took third place with her speech, “Changing America with the First Amendment.”
Each contestant delivered a prepared 8-10 minute oration as well as a 3-5 minute oration on a randomly assigned constitutional topic. This is done without notes, amplification or a podium. The speeches must emphasize a citizen’s duties and obligations to our government under the U.S. Constitution.
In addition to a financial award, the winner from the Feb. 12 contest will go on to the Vermont Department Contest at the Veterans Administration Education Center in White River Junction on Saturday, March 11. The Vermont Department winner receives $1,000 and will participate in the National Finals in Indianapolis, Ind. in April. The National Finals offer scholarships of $1,500 to $18,000 depending on the placement of the contestant.
Listening to high school students dissect and defend the U.S. Constitution will increase your understanding of the foundation of our government. Understanding the U.S. Constitution is imperative to good citizenship. Viewing the contest is open to the public and admission is free. Parents, teachers and students interested in this opportunity for scholarship money are encouraged to attend.