Dripping Springs High School sophomore Pia Rajneesh became the first DSHS student to advance to the UIL 6A Congress State Tournament after placing third at the Region 13 Congressional Debate Meet on Thursday, November 5, in Lexington.
Rajneesh is the first Tiger to advance to the state competition since Lizzie Galassini qualified for the UIL 5A State Congress Tournament in 2022.
Congress is an individual contest in a large group setting that models the legislative process of the United States Congress. Students research real-world social and political issues, draft proposed legislation and position statements, and participate in a mock legislative session. During the competition, they deliver speeches, respond to opposing arguments and vote on proposed measures using parliamentary procedure.
The UIL Congress State Tournament will be held January 6-7 at The University of Texas at Austin and the Texas State Capitol.