Senior Stefan Petrovic broke a school record earlier this semester when he set a school record for the number of points awarded through the National Speech and Debate Association.

Petrovic has accumulated 2,288 points during the past four years of his participation in the debate and forensics programs.

“It determines your level of professionalism in forensics,” he said. “They show dedication in a highly competitive activity.”

Petrovic overtook 2013 graduate Lauren Pauls for the record.

Points are awarded based off of participation in National Speech and Debate Association events like debate and forensics tournaments.

Participants in policy debate are awarded six points for winning a round and three for losing the round. Various degrees of points are awarded for different ranking in forensics events, as well as additional school activities that involve public speaking.

Petrovic said being a part of the debate and forensics programs has been important to his development as a speaker and has helped make connections.

“It has made me a better public speaker, better to my fluency,” he said. “Allows me to form great friendships.”