Pleggenkuhle Recognized as Outstanding Speech & Debate Educator

One of our teachers, Jacqueline Pleggenkuhle, is being recognized with the Outstanding Speech and Debate Educator Award by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS).

Pleggenkuhle has been a teacher for 28 years, with 16 of those years at Waukee High School. Her resume includes instructing theatre, speech, and English, but she currently teaches mostly Oral Communications. Pleggenkuhle is also passionate about coaching the speech team and often directs theatrical performances. She enjoys inspiring her students to explore careers in the arts, broadcasting, and education.

“I’m passionate about teaching speech because I love meeting students where they are as they walk in the door and push them beyond what they ever imagined they could do. It’s awesome to see them find their voice,” Pleggenkuhle says.

In all, 21 teachers across the U.S. were selected as Outstanding Speech and Debate Educators. The award has been given out since 1988.

“It’s crazy to have this award with my name on it. My experiences in the classroom and as a speech coach are centered on elevating student outcomes, so it’s a little uncomfortable to be presented with such an honor. It’s not about me. It’s about what we do together. This honor is to be shared with the other coaches on my team who allow me to serve others across the state, and most certainly, this honor is shared with my students, past and present,” she says.

The NFHS also distributes an Outstanding Performing Arts Educators Award and an Outstanding Theatre Award.