News

CHELMSFORD, Massachusetts (April 15, 2025) – Seniors Sophia Roy and Klara Vaskova represented Chelmsford High School and its Speech and Debate Club during the Massachusetts Speech and Debate League (MSDL) State Tournament, which was held on Saturday, April 5.

Both Speech captains qualified in two events. Roy was a double entry in Original Oratory and Informative Speaking, while Vaskova was entered in Poetry Reading and Prose Reading.

A nationally-ranked speaker, Roy took first place in both categories, making her the only double-entered first-place winner in the entire tournament. Meanwhile, Vaskova won third place in Poetry and placed sixth in Prose.

“It was my pleasure to support these expert speakers in their pursuit of their many accolades and recognitions at the state, regional and national levels,” said Judy Sheehan, the CHS Speech and Debate Club Coach. “They are a true testament to how working hard and with passion pays off!”

After graduating from CHS, Roy will be attending University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, where she will be double-majoring in Neuroscience and English on a Pre-Med Track.

Vaskova will be attending American University in Washington, D.C., double-majoring in International Studies and Justice & Law on a Pre-Law Track. She is currently interning with Congresswoman Lori Trahan as part of the CHS Senior Internship program.

Senior Lana Freije (Radio Broadcasting, junior Karen Khela (Impromptu) and junior Freya Shah (Poetry Reading) all made it to the preliminary round of the tournament, but did not advance to finals.

“Making it through three rounds in a state competition is very difficult and impressive,” Sheehan said.

About Chelmsford Public Schools

The Chelmsford Public School District provides all students with multiple pathways to optimize their own potential for academic excellence, leadership, and social and emotional wellness. The mission of the Chelmsford Public Schools is to educate, engage, prepare, and empower well-rounded and knowledgeable learners to PERSEVERE through challenges, demonstrate RESPECT and INTEGRITY in their words and actions, are DEDICATED to their community, and display EMPATHY as global citizens while discovering and pursuing their full potential. This PRIDE-driven culture enables all members of the school community to support the growth and development of students. For more information, please visit www.chelmsfordschools.org.