On March 14, 2026, the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE), in partnership with the Migrant Education Program, Region 10, hosted the 2026 Regional Speech and Debate Tournament and Awards Ceremony, a day dedicated to student voice, critical thinking and thoughtful expression.

The tournament brought together students in grades 6 - 12 to compete in speech and debate events in both English and Spanish. Competitions were offered at the middle school and high school levels, to students in various district migrant education programs, providing them with opportunities to demonstrate persuasive speaking, argumentation and research skills in a supportive academic setting.

Participating districts included ABC USD, Antelope Valley Union High School District, Los Angeles USD, Long Beach USD, Norwalk–La Mirada USD, El Monte City School District, Garvey School District, Lynwood USD and Hacienda La Puente USD. Throughout the day, students engaged in prepared and extemporaneous speech competitions, as well as debate rounds in both languages.

The event concluded with a keynote speaker, student activities and an awards ceremony recognizing standout performances. As a result of their achievements, a total of 33 students advanced to the state-level competition, representing both middle and high school divisions.

Of the 33 students advancing to the State Speech and Debate Tournament, scheduled for May 1–3, 2026, 15 are middle school students and 18 are high school students, spanning grades 6 through 12 will represent the following districts:

• Norwalk–La Mirada USD

• Long Beach USD

• El Monte City SD

• Los Angeles USD

• Antelope Valley Union High School District

• ABC USD

The Regional Speech and Debate Tournament continues to serve as an important platform for elevating student voice and celebrating the academic achievements of migrant education students across Los Angeles County.

For more information on LACOE’s MEP, please visit their webpage.