The Perry High School Speech & Debate Team has been recognized among the top 100 programs nationwide by the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA) for the 2024–2025 school year, earning a spot in the prestigious NSDA 400 Club.

Perry ranked 58th out of more than 3,000 schools across the country, placing the team among the top two percent of all NSDA member programs. This honor reflects both the size and success of Perry’s program, as well as the accomplishments of its students in competition, leadership, and service.

According to the NSDA, the 400 Club distinction is reserved for schools that have earned at least 420 strength points, a measure of the degrees students accumulate through active participation in speech and debate. The award highlights Perry’s ongoing commitment to teaching students critical life skills such as communication, research, listening, writing, and organization.

Perry Superintendent Nate Stutz praised the achievement, stating, “We are incredibly proud of our Speech & Debate students and coaches for earning this national recognition. To be ranked among the top 100 programs in the country is a testament to their talent, dedication, and hard work. The skills our students develop through Speech & Debate, such as confidence, collaboration, and the ability to think critically, will serve them well in every part of their lives.”

The National Speech & Debate Association describes the 400 Club Award as its most prestigious membership honor, representing exceptional student participation and program excellence.