On Jan. 25, 2025, 13 large group events performed at Cascade High School, for district contest, where each event received a division 1 rating.

Scoring for IHHSA Large Group Speech differs from sports because they are trying to receive the lowest score possible to advance. Districts was only the second time students performed their pieces in front of an audience and the first time they performed in front of a judge. The large group speech students worked hard and were ecstatic when they received their scores.

First-year performer, Madison Davison, a senior who performed in Varsity Readers Theater, shares she was feeling, “Elated and overcome with exhilaration,” When she heard all events received 1. 

Trinitee Stokes-Flowers, a senior who is in two events, Readers Theater and Ensemble Acting, shares “I was very excited.”

This was Stokes-Flowers’ last time performing at districts for the IHHSA Large Group Speech she told reporters “I wasn’t very sad about it, more proud of myself for doing theater for as long as I have.” Stokes-Flower has been doing not only large group but the productions and individual events here at West as well.

State was at Decorah High School on Feb. 8th, where they performed in front of three judges and had to receive a nomination for all state. With 12/13 events receiving overall 1’s at State, eight of those advanced to the All-State festival on Saturday, Feb. 22.

Students spent time working hard to perfect their performances in preparation for state contest. “I expect both groups to give their best performance for the judges, audience, and themselves. Overall the real expectation is that everyone does their best and has fun,” said first year coach Nicole Goodman.