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Blen Teklu Wins Dallas ISD’s 34th MLK Jr. Oratory Competition

Original speeches on King’s message of hope showcased a youth program sustained by mentorship plus sponsorship.

Overview

  • Dallas ISD concluded its 34th annual MLK Jr. Oratory Competition on Jan. 16 with eight finalists presenting in Dallas.
  • More than 90 elementary students entered during the fall, and the finalists delivered original three-to-five-minute speeches on what message of hope Dr. King would share today.
  • Blen Teklu, a fourth grader from Preston Hollow Elementary, earned first place and received a laptop and a $2,000 check.
  • Foley & Lardner LLP sponsored the event, providing laptops for all eight finalists along with cash prizes.
  • Judges praised the students’ understanding and passion, and former participant Dalton Sherman served as a judge, offering encouragement as he continues his work at Deloitte and with a college and career readiness nonprofit.