Salem Academy Debate Team Wins Third Place at 2026 PEA Debate Tournament

Ten Salem Academy debaters recently competed in the Piedmont Environmental Alliance (PEA) competition against 65 teams and 130 debaters from 15 other schools throughout the Triad. This was the 11th annual PEA Debate Tournament, held at Wake Forest University, and the seventh time Salem Academy students have competed in it. 

This year, Tashi ‘26 and Evie ‘26, won third place overall, marking the fourth PEA Debate Tournament in a row in which an Academy team has advanced to the semifinals and placed third.  In the individual speaker competition, Tashi placed fifth, Evie placed third, and Emily ‘29, a first-time debater, placed 21st.

“As I was looking at the photo, I kept thinking how it represents Salem Academy so well. For example, 50% of the debaters are boarders and 40% are international students. The team included seniors, juniors, and a freshman. Six of the ten will also attend the Model U.N. conference at App State,” said Michelle Hopkins Lawrence, Salem Academy teacher, historian, and director of the Debate and Model U.N. teams.

Salem Academy’s strong showing at this year’s PEA Debate Tournament reflects both the team’s dedication and the program’s continued growth. Academy debaters look forward to building on this success at future competitions.