A New Chapter for Oral Interpretation

Ms. Teresa Fester Retires as Head Coach and Mr. Charlie Solomon Steps Up

After years of dedicated service, Teresa Fester is stepping down as the head coach of the Oral Interpretation team, marking the end of an era. Fester has been instrumental in shaping the program, guiding countless students to success in the art of speech and performance. Her leadership and passion will be greatly missed, but the future looks bright as Mr. Charlie Solomon takes over the reins.

Mr. Solomon, an alum of O’Gorman High School, graduated in 2012 with a wealth of experience in oral interpretation. He attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), where he majored in Psychology and Biochemistry. He later pursued a Master’s in Education at Black Hills State University, equipping him with the knowledge and pedagogical skills necessary for a successful teaching career. We are grateful he chose to come back to his roots.

Since joining OGHS as a teacher in 2020, Mr. Solomon has already made significant contributions to the school’s speech and theatre programs. He codirected the Children’s Show in both 2022 and 2023, showcasing his ability to guide and inspire young performers. His competitive background is impressive; during his high school years, he secured a remarkable second place in the nation in Duo Interpretation, along with placing seventh in Duo, Humorous, and Storytelling. These accomplishments not only highlight his talent but also reflect his deep understanding of the intricacies of performance.

In the past few years, Mr. Solomon had some talented duos who ranked in semifinals and top 30 in the nation—a testament to his coaching ability. He also loves coaching Humorous, Storytelling, and Dramatic Interp. His experience as a competitor and coach positions him well to lead the Oral Interpretation team into the future.

In this transition, Mr. Solomon will not be alone. He will continue to receive guidance from Ms. Chloe Goldade, a seasoned figure in the program, ensuring a smooth handover and continuity in coaching strategies. With both Mr. Solomon’s innovative vision and Chloe’s experience and passion for Program Oral Interp, Original Oratory, Informative, and Poetry, the program is set to thrive. In addition to his coaching role, Solomon has taught biology and chemistry, and currently, is conveying his knowledge in physics and engineering. This diverse educational background enables him to bring a unique perspective to the speech program, where critical thinking and creativity are essential.

As Ms. Teresa Fester embarks on her well-deserved retirement, the Oral Interpretation program stands poised for continued excellence under Mr. Solomon’s leadership. She is still involved in the background as she teaches the Oral Interpretation class and is helping with administrative duties. Mr. Solomon’s track record, combined with Chloe Goldade’s mentorship, promises to cultivate a new generation of talented speakers and performers.