On Saturday, January 21, Keota High School will be one of the host sites for the Iowa High School Speech Association’s Large Group District Contest.

The event, drawing teams from over 30 southeast Iowa schools, kicks off at 7:15 a.m. with a judges meeting and performances beginning at 8 a.m. in various sections of the building. In addition to Keota, participating schools include Washington, Columbus Junction, Mid-Prairie, Sigourney, and WACO. Performances, such as one act plays, choral readings, and short films will be featured throughout the afternoon.

Coach for the Keota Speech Team, Gina Bennett, spoke on the weeks of preparation that have gone into hosting the event, adding, “It takes a village in order to do something like this.” Bennett went on to encourage the community to come out and support the students.

Audience members are reminded to remain quiet when entering and exiting the building, as performances will take place all day. Concessions will be available in the cafeteria, accepting cash and card.

Questions can be directed to Gina Bennett at 319-330-6085, or Michael McNurlen at 319-930-1158. For a complete list of district sites and participating schools, click here.