The Cherokee Educational Foundation received a donation of mineral rights from Shane Terrel, with the gift designated to benefit the Cherokee High School (CHS) speech and debate program.

“This was completely unexpected, and of course, we’re incredibly grateful,” CHS speech and debate coach Jason Paris said. “Most people don’t realize how much it costs to run a thriving speech, debate and theater program.”

While earmarked for the speech and debate program, the foundation will serve as custodian of the endowment, and will need to approve the speech team’s use of the funds.

“We’re very grateful,”...