Topeka West Teacher Wins Diamond Award

Matthew Baer, debate and forensics coach at Topeka West High School, has been awarded the distinction of being named the newest Diamond Coach by the National Speech and Debate Conference.

A diamond award recognizes a professional career that combines excellence and longevity, and diamond awards are based on coach points received. Coaches receive one-tenth of the points earned by their students and one-tenth of the points earned as a student member of the association. After a minimum of five years as a National Speech and Debate Association member, a coach who attains 1,500 points is awarded a first diamond; a second diamond is awarded at 3,000 points; a third for 6,000 points and so on. Five years must pass between each diamond award.

On June 19^th, Mr. Baer will receive special recognition at the National Speech and Debate Tournament in Overland Park. Each year, the tournament draws more than 5,000 students, coaches and parents from across the nation. We are so proud that Mr. Baer will be recognized for his stellar accomplishments this year!