The Initiative supports students through speech and debate teams at our partner schools. Our goal is to have competitive speech and debate teams at all of our regional public middle and high schools by 2025.

If you are part of a current team, we’re happy to support you!

If you are not part of a current team but are interested in starting a team and would like some help, let us know! We can help you find a teacher sponsor and provide information about our resources and regional network.

We’ve proudly partnered with the Richmond Debate Institute for over three years. This year, they are offering a completely free and virtual Sunday debate league for students interested in learning the elements of speech and debate and those wanting to build a broader debate community. This opportunity is the continuation of summer debate camp and will offer instructor and mentor roles for varsity students. Interested in participating or know a student that would benefit? Visit our friends at Richmond Debate Institute!

Student leadership is critical to the long-term success of a speech and debate team. Students can advocate for a leadership structure within their teams by talking to the current coach about ways to get involved. Ideas range from team captain to serving as the lead student for the different debate and speech categories, social media chair, and more! Reach out to us if you are interested in learning more about the leadership structure various teams already have in place.

Summer camps are the ideal way for new students to learn about speech and debate and for experienced speech/debate students to hone their skills even further. There are many summer camps to choose from. Each year the Initiative partners with our local Richmond Debate Institute camp to offer an affordable camp option for students.