University High School wins three championships and takes second place in overall team category
FAIRLESS HILLS, PA – University High School’s Speech & Debate Team delivered outstanding performances at the Pennsbury High School Falcon Invitational this past weekend, earning multiple championships and strong finishes in several events. More than 1,000 students competed in the tournament that hosted 77 schools throughout several mid-Atlantic states including Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and Delaware.
“The students at University High School continue to show the entire state and nation what Newark students are capable of achieving,” said Superintendent León. “To win multiple championships at such a prestigious competition, and to do so in such dominant fashion, speaks to their talent and the incredible coaching they receive. We are enormously proud of these young leaders and their continued excellence.”
“University High School has once again raised the bar,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “These results are nothing short of extraordinary, and they reflect the teamwork, focus, and resilience that define our students. Congratulations to every scholar who competed and everyone who supports this powerhouse program.”
“I could not be prouder of our scholars,” said University High School Principal Genique Flournoy-Hamilton. “What they accomplished at the Falcon Invitational is a testament to their dedication, their brilliance, and the powerful culture of excellence that defines University High School. I want to thank their coach, Saul Grullon, for working with these young people and leading them to achieve excellence.”
Declamation
- Josmanuel DeLeon, 1st Place
Duo Interpretation
- Josmanuel DeLeon & Dante Elliott, 1st Place
Overall Individual Sweepstakes – Elite Award
- Josmanuel DeLeon, 1st Place
Overall Team Sweepstakes
- University High School, 2nd Place
Prose
- Josmanuel DeLeon, 2nd Place
- Belonica Maceno, 5th Place
- Jovany Hinds, Semifinalist
- Luis Franco, Semifinalist
Poetry
- Jazzlee Usher, 3rd Place
- Luis Franco, 5th Place
- Belonica Maceno, Semifinalist
Dramatic Performance
- Luis Franco, 4th Place
- Dante Elliott, 6th Place
- Jovany Hinds, Semifinalist
- Laylah Germany, Semifinalist
- Joshua Akerele, Semifinalist
- Tariff Singleton, Semifinalist
- Josmanuel DeLeon, Semifinalist
Program of Oral Interpretation
- Dakota Creath, 3rd Place
About Newark Public Schools
The Newark Public Schools is the largest school district in New Jersey and dates back to 1676. The District currently enrolls over 41,000 students in 65 schools. After more than two decades of state operation and upon return to local control in 2018, the District has opened ten new schools under Superintendent León’s leadership with an additional portfolio of new options to be announced in the coming months and years. The Newark Board of Education serves as a beacon of educational excellence, dedicated to nurturing the potential of every student. With a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and fostering a love for learning, the District continues to shape future generations and make a positive impact within the community.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Paul Brubaker, Communications Director
Email: pbrubaker@nullnps.k12.nj.us
Phone: 973-803-6983