Olle Middle School teacher George Tennison has earned national recognition for his extraordinary contributions to speech and debate education, receiving the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Outstanding Middle School Speech and Debate Educator Award for Section 6.
The prestigious honor recognizes outstanding educators from a five-state region that includes Arkansas, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Tennison is one of only four middle school educators nationwide selected for the inaugural award, marking the NFHS's first year of recognizing speech and debate educators at the middle school level.
To celebrate this remarkable achievement, Jana Riggins, University Interscholastic League (UIL) Assistant Director for Speech and Debate, visited Olle Middle School to personally present Tennison with the award.
For more than three decades, Tennison has dedicated his career to helping students discover the power of their voices. His journey into education was inspired by overcoming a childhood speech impairment, an experience that shaped his lifelong commitment to empowering young people through communication.
According to the NFHS, Tennison has built a speech and debate program that encourages students to develop confidence, critical thinking skills, and effective communication. His impact extends far beyond the classroom, serving as a department chair, National Speech and Debate Association Two-Diamond Coach, and leader within the Texas Speech Communication Association. Throughout his career, he has presented 24 professional development panels, chaired multiple committees, organized tournaments, and mentored educators across Texas.
Tennison's students have consistently achieved success at local, state, and national competitions, reflecting his commitment to excellence and student growth. His previous honors include being named Texas Speech Communication Association Middle School Educator of the Year and receiving the National Speech and Debate Association Distinguished Service Key.
The NFHS highlighted Tennison's dedication to creating safe and inclusive learning environments where students can build confidence and develop lifelong communication skills. His philosophy centers on the belief that effective communication can transform lives and open doors to future opportunities.
The award serves as a testament to Tennison's lasting impact on generations of students and educators. Through his leadership, passion, and unwavering commitment to student success, he has helped countless young people find their voice and develop the skills needed to become confident leaders, advocates, and communicators.
As the recipient of the inaugural NFHS Outstanding Middle School Speech and Debate Educator Award for Section 6, George Tennison represents the very best of educational excellence and continues to make Alief ISD proud.