Newark Public Schools Students Win Top Honors at Prestigious Lexington Winter Invitational Debate Tournament

LEXINGTON, MA – Newark Public Schools students delivered standout performances at the Lexington Winter Invitational Debate Tournament, one of the most prestigious and competitive high school debate tournaments in the nation.

Science Park High School’s seniors Risiqat Adeniji and Mofoluwa Olagadeyo captured first place in the Varsity Policy Debate category at the national tournament that drew hundreds of debaters from across the country. The duo defeated teams from Success Academy, Bronx High School of Science, Georgetown Day School, and Brooklyn Technical High School to secure the championship. The pair also earned top honors in October at the New York City Invitational Speech & Debate Tournament.

“Achievements like this reflect what is possible when students are challenged at the highest levels and supported by outstanding teachers,” said Superintendent León. “Our debaters are developing critical thinking, research, and advocacy skills that will serve them well in college, careers, and civic life. Their success at a national-caliber tournament like Lexington affirms the strength of Newark Public Schools’ academic programs.”

“Our students continue to show that when hard work meets opportunity, excellence follows. Science Park debaters consistently push themselves to think critically, advocate effectively, and hold their own against the strongest competitors in the country,” said Principal Darleen L Gearhart. “I am incredibly proud of their preparation, their teamwork, and their determination to compete at the highest levels. Their success at Lexington is a testament to their talent and to the educators who guide and challenge them every day.”

CLICK HERE to see a video of Risiqat Adeniji and Mofoluwa Olagadeyo.

Science Park students earned multiple distinctions throughout the tournament:

• Varsity Policy Debate (Top 16):
  • Anne Odra, junior
  • Moyinoluwa Olagadeyo, sophomore

• Novice Policy Debate (Semifinalists / Top 4):
  • Josiah James, freshman
  • Eli Myers Muhammad, freshman
    Both students were also recognized as the top two speakers in their division.

• Novice Lincoln-Douglas Debate (Co-Champion):
  • Stella Rodriguez, freshman

“Our students are helped in large part by our former students,” said Science Park High School Debate Coach Jonathan Alston. “At this tournament, Temitope Ogundare (Class of 2020) and Ashley Lourenco (Class of 2025), helped coach our students to success. This is part of a larger Newark Debate tradition of passing to the new generation the best of what has come before.”

“These results speak to the depth of talent across our schools and grade levels,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “From freshmen to seniors, Newark students are competing and winning against some of the best debate programs in the country. We are proud of their discipline, confidence, and commitment to excellence.”