FCHS Speech Teacher Craig Edgerton Awarded Outstanding Speech and Debate Educator Award by the National Federation of State High School Associations – Press Release

Craig Edgerton stands as a stalwart figure in the Virginia speech and debate community, boasting an impressive career spanning over three decades. His journey began in 1989 when, as a college junior, he joined the National Forensic League (NFL) and commenced coaching Speech and Debate at North Canton Hoover High School. Since then, Edgerton’s commitment to education and speech activities has only strengthened. Over the past 24 years, he has been a dedicated educator at Fluvanna County High School, teaching Theatre, Broadcasting, and Speech across all grade levels (8th-12th grade) and directing school plays. Edgerton’s influence reaches far beyond the classroom, as he took on the challenge of building the Speech and Debate team from scratch at Fluvanna, achieving remarkable success, including district titles, state championships, and an impressive track record in various leagues.

Edgerton’s impact is not limited to coaching and teaching; he is deeply involved in shaping the landscape of speech and debate in Virginia. He has served on committees, including the VHSL Drama, Debate, and Forensics Advisory Committee, and held key positions within the Virginia Chapter of the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA). His supervision has been recognized with numerous awards, including the NSDA 2 Diamond Coach distinction, the NSDA Excellence in Leadership Bronze Award, and the Allstate Foundation-VHSL Achievement Award/Mentor.

Beyond his coaching achievements, Edgerton has proven himself as collaborative and supportive in the speech community. Whether leading the Shenandoah Forensics League to become one of the strongest in the state or providing instrumental support for a growing debate team, Edgerton succeeds at all levels. His dedication to students, coupled with his advocacy within the Virginia High School League, showcases Edgerton as a paragon of excellence, embodying the qualities of a passionate and impactful speech coach.

For more information about Edgerton, check out this article by the Fluco Beat.