Why Debate

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Hear From Our Students

I would have never been able to afford coaching outside of the National Debate Club. The debate space is often blocked by barriers of cost, things like tournament fees, flights, and coaching make debate less accessible for students who aren’t as advantaged as others, and this is only further worsened by disparities in-round, like access to prep and evidence. As a debater that has been restricted from reaching the full ceiling of this activity because of this, I am thankful to the National Debate Club for giving me higher access, their aid is substantial and NDC is always able to work with families in order to ensure that every debater can do what they seek to do within debate. It’s not just about financial aid, it’s about leveling the playing field for debaters everywhere.

2024 Travel Team Student

Ketanji Brown Jackson

United States Supreme Court Justice

Why Debate?

Speech and Debate is the most effective teacher of critical thinking, communication, and confiedence. When a family invests in their child’s debate success they are launching them to a better and brighter future.

"Highschool debate was an experience that I can say without hesitation was the one activity that best prepared me in law and in life."

Kentaji Brown Jackson's Debate Journey

Still Not Convinced? Numbers Don't Lie

30%

Top Tier College
Acceptance Rates

37%

Increase in Test Scores, According to NSDA

87%

Increase in Analytical Skills, According to NSDA

15%

Increase in Self-Esteem, According to NSDA

THERE IS NO ARGUMENT 

Debate Shapes Tomorrow's Leaders

Indra Nooyi

Former CEO of Pepsi

Barack Obama

Former President

Winston Churchill

Former Prime Minister

Brad Pitt

Actor and Philanthropist

Al Gore

Former Vice President

Hasan Minhaj

Comedian & Activist

Susan Wojcicki

Former CEO of Youtube

Bill Clinton

Former President

Nelson Mandela

President of South Africa

Margaret Thatcher

Former Prime Minister

Bernie Sanders

Senator

DEBATE: THE ULTIMATE EDUCATOR

Debate isn't just about winning arguments. It's a transformative experience that shapes critical thinkers, confident communicators, and future leaders. At CDA, we utilize the power of debate to give your child a competitive advantage in academics and beyond.

Understand The World

Engaging with debate topics makes learning relevant and dynamic, fostering informed citizens who can articulate diverse perspectives and understand the world around them.

Boost College Admissions

Debate's unparalleled ability to teach essential skills makes it the number one activity for Ivy League admittance. Almost half of the 2027 Harvard class competed in a debate activity.

Learn Communication

Whether your student wants to be a doctor, lawyer, or entrepreneur, learning effective written and oral communication is key to their success, and debate is the best teacher.

Become A Critical Thinker

Debate sharpens students’ critical thinking, requiring them to evaluate multiple perspectives, construct well-reasoned arguments, and respond to opposing views.

Enhance Research Skills

Debate involves research on a wide range of topics. The process not only enhances students' research skills but equips them with the ability to locate, analyze, and synthesize information.

Supercharge Confidence

Debate empowers students to articulate their thoughts clearly, handle adversity, and engage confidently in real-world discussions, enhancing their communication skills and self-assurance.

Maximize Potential

Debate fosters universal skills like communication, critical thinking, and research. Allowing every student to maximize their potential

Activate Achievment

Thruough continous reading and writting practice, debate cultivates the skills necessary for top academic success and achievement.

College Readiness

Debate cultivates the exact skills colleges look for. Through nuanced academic conversations the activity prepares students for elite colleges.

Own Your Voice

Speaking in front of judges and peers is one of the best ways for a student to become comfortable with their voice and by extension themselves.

FAQ

Got Questions? We’ve Got The Answers

What if my school already offers debate?

While school debate programs can be beneficial, they often lack individualized attention and tailored coaching. Research shows that students who start earlier and receive personalized instruction perform better in the long run. CDA bridges these gaps with expert-led coaching, a structured curriculum, and a focus on each student’s growth, ensuring they achieve their full potential.

Is debate only for future lawyers and politicians?

Not at all! Debate equips students with skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability, which are valuable in any career, from tech to the arts.

Who are some notable figures who participated in debate?

Famous debaters include Barack Obama, Indra Nooyi, Margaret Thatcher, and Hasan Minhaj. Debate shapes future leaders in diverse fields like politics, business, and entertainment.

How does debate build confidence?

Debate sharpens public speaking skills and enhances self-esteem by 15%, as students learn to articulate ideas effectively and handle challenging questions with poise.

Can debate improve college admissions prospects?

Yes! Debate boosts top-tier college acceptance rates by 30%, showcasing students' leadership, critical thinking, and communication abilities on applications.

How does debate help with academic success?

Debate participants experience a 37% increase in test scores and an 87% boost in analytical skills, according to the NSDA. These skills translate directly into improved academic performance.

Our Programs

Civic Debate Academy offers two primary programs, the National Debate Club (Travel Team) and Classes.

Travel Team

Competitive Travel Team

Semi-private Coaching

Nationwide Travel

For Varsity+ Students

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Classes

Focused on the Fundamentals

Small Class Sizes

Taught by Experts

For Those Learning Debate

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