Two of Atlantic High School’s students, Margaret McCurdy and Sophie Johnson, participated in the IHSSA All-State Festival. The event was held at the University of Northern Iowa on March 30. To attend the festival, students had to perform at the State IHSSA competition. There, they were rated by three judges, and they had to be nominated by at least two. About 600 students were invited to go, and 450 performed. For her fourth year participating, McCurdy was nominated in both the Literary Program and Acting. She performed her Literary Program. McCurdy also encourages any students interested in Speech and Debate to get involved, as it opens up “many opportunities.” Johnson was nominated for her Literary Program and Poetry pieces. This year was her second year going, and she also encourages students to get involved in Speech and Debate because “it’s just a great, loving, and supportive community.”
IHSSA All-State Festival
NEWS BRIEF
April 9, 2026
Seniors Margaret McCurdy and Sophie Johnson won the Iowa High School Speech Association’s highest honor. Photo by Vorland Photography
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About the Contributor
Gabrielle Engler, Staff Writer
Gabrielle Engler is a sophomore and second semester journalism student at AHS. Engler’s strong suit is writing. “It’s just fun to do. I like being able to write about things that I also want to learn more about. I get to learn a lot more than I thought I would.” She plans to be active in journalism for the rest of her high school career. “I’m passionate about that kind of stuff.”
Outside of journalism, Engler enjoys running, archery, and softball. She plays instruments such as the bass clarinet, harmonica, and guitar. Engler has been involved in multiple musical and play productions throughout high school. When she graduates she would like to attend a university and participate in their running program, then continue to get a graduate degree to become a lawyer.
Bio by John McCurdy.