Thirteen Mid-Prairie High School students performing in six categories received top ratings during the state large group speech contest Saturday.

Students performed for three certified Iowa High School Speech Association (IHSSA) judges who came to Wellman. Mid-Prairie’s improv, readers theatre, two ensemble, and two theatre musical groups all earned overall 1 or superior state ratings making them eligible for all-state nominations. Those groups included Alexander Burnham, Christopher Burnham, Olivia Caskey, Gavin Frascht, Avery Frede, Kelby Gingerich, Magnolia Graber, Samuel Harris, Kyra Helmuth, Elizabeth Meader, Emily Marner, Terra Richardson and Avery Schlabaugh.

Speech Coach Chisty Meader says since the IHSSA has given schools a variety of contest options, and until February 10th to hold their large group state contests, Mid-Prairie won’t learn of potential All-State nominations until Wednesday, February 17th. There also won’t be an  All-State Festival this year because of COVID-19.