ERIE COUNTY, N.Y. — St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute, an all boys private high school in WNY hosted their 40th annual political debate Thursday morning.
The debate is led by students in the high school's AP government class, and gives them the opportunity to ask candidates a variety of questions. It also gives those students participating the task of timekeeping, factchecking, and coordinating a live debate in front of an audience.
Thursdays debate featured candidates in the race for Erie County District Attorney, Mike Keane and James Gardner.
Candidates took the stage at 9:15 a.m. in the high school's auditorium and were asked thoughtful questions submitted by the students.
Longtime St. Joe's AP Government teacher, Ted Lina has facilitated the debate for the last 40-years going back to the very first one in 1984.
"Mr. Lina, AP Government teacher, hosted the first debate in 1984. The event has evolved over the years, but the continued success is due to Mr. Lina's personal passion for local politics and government policy. Leadership of the debate is now shared with Mr. McHale '87, AP U.S. History teacher and former debate participant from his high school days at St. Joe's." St. Joe's website reads.
At the end of Thursdays debate, Mr. Lina was presented with two awards for his dedication and time over the years.
"Mr. Lina on behalf of the board of trustees, Christian Brothers, the leadership team, the faculty, the staff, and the students," said Dr. Christopher Fulco, St. Joes President "We thank you for giving this incredible learning experience to generation after generation of St. Joes students."
To express their appreciation, former students who are now elected officials, Senator Rob Ortt and Buffalo Common Council Member Joel Feroleto presented Mr. Lina with the awards on stage.
Watch the full award ceremony attached below.
2 On Your Side's Charlie Specht attended the debate and provided updates attached below. You can watch his full recap of the debate later today on our 5 p.m. & 6 p.m. newscasts.