The Benefits
Why choose Civispeak? Here are some reasons why a high school–led initiative is especially effective for students just starting out in debate.
Benefits of a High-Schooler-Led Initiative
and What Sets Civispeak Apart
Experience
Yes, some adults have experience in debate, but it's been a while since they were in the debate room. I just recently finished the middle school debate experience myself.
Relatable Role Model
Since I was just in their shoes, it's easier to connect, communicate, and inspire. Students learn better from someone who has recently been through the same experience and understands their world—and what teaching style works best for them.
Passion
Since this is a free initiative, I'm not looking for material compensation—the only reward I seek is seeing our students succeed
Affordable and Accessible
This program empowers everyone through debate with its equitable, no-cost approach. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to have their lives positively transformed by the power of debate.
Friendly and Fun
Student-led initiatives are less intimidating because there isn’t much of an age gap, which makes students more comfortable making mistakes and learning from them—that’s how we all grow!
Flexible and Modern
Student-led debate initiatives focus on current, relevant topics that students care about—such as economic issues and federal policy debates—that are commonly seen in tournaments. This helps students feel confident and well-prepared when they encounter these topics in real rounds.
Hands on Experience
At Civispeak, we run a variety of drills to help students practice the wide range of skills needed in the debate room. By the end of the program, they apply all these skills in a final tournament, leaving them better prepared for future competitions.
Community Building
Through the power of team debate, students build strong bonds with one another, support each other’s growth, and practice leadership within their group. These leadership skills help them speak with greater confidence in the debate room.
Academic Development
Debate teaches students to research deeply, think critically, and write clearly—skills they’ll use throughout middle school, high school, and college applications. These skills can lead to higher grades, stronger essays, and better standardized test scores.
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Confidence in Public Speaking
High schools and colleges look for students who can express their ideas clearly and confidently. Debate helps students get comfortable speaking in front of others, which makes interviews, class presentations, and leadership roles easier later on.
Adds to Profile
High schools and colleges want well-rounded students. Being involved in debate from middle school shows long-term commitment, discipline, and intellectual curiosity. Success in debate can lead to awards, competitions, or leadership positions—all of which stand out on high school and college applications.
Awareness
Debate exposes students to current events, global topics, and ethical questions.This makes them more well-informed and capable of writing thoughtful middle school, high school, and college essays and discussing meaningful topics during interviews.
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