UAIS teacher is Michigan's top debate coach

Utica Academy of International Studies teacher Chris Kuhlman has been named Michigan's debate top coach by a statewide professional association of his peers.

Kuhlman, who teaches English and Communications at UAIS, was named the Debate Coach of the Year by the Michigan Speech Coaches Incorporated.

"Chris empowers students to do better, allowing them to make and own decisions while applying guidance that ranges from the occasional directive to the constant question," said Thomas Lietz, the UAIS program director, said in the nomination. "Mr. Kuhlman is a great guy to boot. He is thoughtful, he is kind, and he always has the best interests of children in mind."

UAIS student Danny Haidar said: "At this highly challenging school, we have a number of very ambitious students, and it’s difficult to cater to that. Mr. Kuhlman does it effortlessly."

Kuhlman has led his team to top state honors, including two of his students being named the top state debaters over the past few years and top 10 finishes in Novice and Varsity for multiple participants.

Kuhlman also chairs the Michigan Interscholastic Forensic Association's Legislative Debate Committee.