2023 November/December Rostrum by Speech & Debate

A PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL SPEECH & DEBATE ASSOCIATION

VOLUME 98 ISSUE 2 N O V. / D E C . 2 0 2 3

2 0 2 3 N AT I O N A L S T U D E N T O F T H E Y E A R

Speech and debate saved my life. It showed me a version of myself I hadn’t known before. I became part of a community. It gave me a purpose, a passion, a future, a reason to live.”

Authentically Jade PAGE 28

Unsung Heroes of Speech and Debate PAGE 30

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UT National Institute in Forensics

University of Texas

National Institute in Forensics Thank you to all of the students and coaches who joined us this past summer for the 30th Annual UT National Institute in Forensics. The UTNIF continues to be one of the largest and most accomplished summer forensic programs in the country. Just a few reasons why our students keep coming back year after year: incomparable education, superior resources, unmatched faculty, reasonable rates, tremendous alumni, and the background of the University of Texas at Austin.

www.utspeech.net www.utdebatecamp.com

Success in any academic activity is a product of excellent and immensely talented students, incredibly hard working coaches, supportive parents and schools, and an investment in time that may include summer opportunities. It is that understanding that makes UTNIF one of the largest comprehensive institutes in the country year after year, and why we have assembled some of the brightest forensic minds in the nation for our program. It is also that educational philosophy that has enabled alumni of our summer programs to succeed at every level, from high school and well into collegiate forensic competition. UTNIF is the place to get your head start on the season.

Passion… Elegance… Excellence As we move into our fourth decade of the UTNIF, we also welcome the new Director of Individual Events Eva Margarita, who will take over for UTNIF 2024 and serve as the new Director of Texas Speech in the Fall of 2024. Having already served as the Assistant Director of Texas Speech for the past three years while completing her doctoral program, soon to be Dr. Margarita is both a fantastic person and an amazing educator. UTNIF Dept. of Communication Studies 1 University Station Mail Code A1105 Austin, Texas 78712-1105

Letter from the Publisher

Board of Directors

As the ancient philosopher Cicero once said, “Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues but the parent of all others.” During the last 20 years at the helm of the NSDA, I have found this sentiment to be inherently true. I am a firm believer in surrounding yourself with amazing individuals and telling them often how much you appreciate them. On page 30, we take a moment to honor some of the unsung heroes of speech and debate who go above and beyond in support of this activity. I encourage you to seek out those indviduals who do the same in your school or local community and thank them. The smallest of gestures—a kind word or a handwritten note—can have a lasting impact.

Pam Cady Wycoff President Minnesota Dr. Tommie Lindsey, Jr. Vice President California Byron R. Arthur Louisiana

Also in this issue, district chairs from across the country offer their tips for recruiting volunteers and working with alumni while showing gratitude along the way (page 42). Coach Said Dibinga - Chota shares some of his advice after a decade of coaching as well as his deep appreciation for his mentors and supporters (page 38).

David Huston Texas

We also speak with Jade Ismail, 2023 NSDA National Student of the Year, who tells her story of overcoming and coming out (page 28). George Tennison shares some of his veteran observations of coaching the activity at the middle school level (page 46), and we gain insights from several rising stars in this edition of Champions Corner (page 48).

Jennifer M. Jerome Nebraska

To the coaches, students, parents, alumni, administrators, staff, and countless others who give their time and energy to this life-changing activity, thank you. I wish you all a safe and relaxing holiday season! Sincerely,

6600 Westown Parkway, Suite 270, West Des Moines, IA 50266 | Phone (920) 748-6206

Amy Seidelman, Editor Vicki Joss, Managing Editor Annie Reisener, Associate Editor Emily Bratton, Graphic Design Assistant

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James W. Rye III Alabama

Dr. Mike Edmonds Colorado Sara Gibson District of Columbia

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Rostrum (ISSN 1073-5526), Copyright © 2023 by the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA), is published five times per year (Sept., Nov., Feb., Apr., and Aug.) by the NSDA, 6600 Westown Parkway, Suite 270, West Des Moines, IA 50266. Business and Editorial Offices: NSDA, 6600 Westown Parkway, Suite 270, West Des Moines, IA 50266. Accounting and Circulation Offices: 6600 Westown Parkway, Suite 270, West Des Moines, IA 50266. Call (920) 748-6206 to subscribe. Periodicals postage is paid at Des Moines, IA 50318, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Rostrum, c/o NSDA, 6600 Westown Parkway, Suite 270, West Des Moines, IA 50266. Rostrum provides a forum for the speech and debate community. The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and not necessarily the opinions of the NSDA, its officers, or its members. The National Speech & Debate Association does not guarantee advertised products and services unless sold directly by the NSDA.

ROSTRUM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Renee C. Motter Colorado

Dr. Alan H. Coverstone District of Columbia

Rostrum A PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL SPEECH & DEBATE ASSOCIATION J. Scott Wunn, Publisher

Adam J. Jacobi Wisconsin

APPOINTED MEMBERS

J. Scott Wunn Executive Director

ELECTED MEMBERS

To learn more about the Board, visit www.speechanddebate.org/ meet-the-team. You may also contact the Board by emailing board@speechanddebate.org.

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In this Issue : VOLUME 98 : ISSUE 2 : NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

From the Cover

Inside

Letter from the Publisher

Topics

Student Spotlight: Jade Ismail

Governance and Leadership

News + Notes

From Your Board President

Membership Minute

Competition and Rules Leadership Committee Inaugural Election

Resource Roundup

Tabroom.com Tip

Middle School Focus

Community

by George Tennison

NSDA Student Alliance

Faces in the Crowd

Multicultural Learning Alliance

Speech and Debate Organizations Forge Collaborative Future by Dr. James Weaver

Access this issue online!

New Rules Summaries

www.speechanddebate.org/rostrum

Unsung Heroes of Speech and Debate

NSDE Day: Social Media Kit

Executive Director J. Scott Wunn Reflects on 20 Years of NSDA Leadership

Coach Profile: Said Dibinga - Chota

District in Detail: With Appreciation

Champions Corner: Rising Stars

USA Debate Update by Sophia Li

Words from the Hall

Recognition 55

Top 100 Schools

Advocacy Letter by Elisha Roberts

Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ speechanddebate Share with us on Instagram @speechanddebate Follow us on Twitter (X) @speechanddebate Follow us on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/nationalspeech-and-debate-association Follow us on TikTok @nsda.speechanddebate

OUR MISSION Rostrum shares best practices, resources, and opportunities that connect, support, and inspire a diverse community of educators committed to empowering students through speech and debate.

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The American Legion’s National Oratorical Contest

LOOKING FOR COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS?  LOOK NO FURTHER. The first place finisher of The American Legion’s National Oratorical Contest is awarded a $25,000 scholarship, second place $22,500, and third place $20,000. As part of the National Speech & Debate Association’s ongoing alliance with The American Legion, those top three finishers may also earn the right to compete in Original Oratory or United States Extemporaneous Speaking at the National Speech & Debate Tournament!

 Want to get involved? Follow these simple steps! • Visit www.legion.org/oratorical to learn more. • Click on “State Contests” to contact The American Legion Department Headquarters located in your state to learn when the first contest in your area will be. • Also click on “Assigned Topics” to learn the extemporaneous topic areas. • Prepare your original oration on some aspect of the Constitution with emphasis on the duties and obligations of a citizen to our government.

Haley Bock of Indiana placed first at the 2023 American Legion National Oratorical Contest

Watch examples of past winning orations online at www.legion.org/oratorical/videos.

Topics

Current topics, voting links, and resources available at:

www.speechanddebate.org/topics Member students and one chapter advisor per school are eligible to vote!

Topic Creation Hub We’ve created a central hub to answer your frequently asked questions about how topics are generated throughout the school year—and ways you can get involved in the process! Learn more at www.speechanddebate.org/topic-creation-hub.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Public Forum Debate Resolved: The United States federal government should forgive all federal student loan debt.

Share Your Topic Suggestions We invite you and your students to send us your debate topic ideas for Lincoln-Douglas and Public Forum as well as potential motions for World Schools Debate. Find the online submission forms at www.speechanddebate.org/topic-creation-hub.

Join a Wording Committee Member coaches and alums are encouraged to apply to serve on one of our topic wording committees. Committees will either work on topics for the 2024 National Tournament or write potential resolutions for the 2024-2025 season. The work of these groups generally will be completed between March 1 and May 1, 2024. PF and LD committees may continue working into June. Visit www.speechanddebate.org/topic-creation-hub to access the online application form.

Congress Legislation: Seeking Student Voices Any high school or middle school NSDA member student, regardless of their national qualification status, may submit legislation to be considered for the 2024 National Tournament Docket! Encourage your students to debate the topics they are passionate about—if they wrote it, they can submit it! Students may submit multiple pieces of legislation for consideration. If their legislation is selected to be part of the Nationals Docket, they will be recognized in Rostrum, receive a trophy after the tournament, and be awarded a $100 scholarship. This is a great way to boost students’ resumes and be recognized for their research and writing skills! The online form closes February 5, 2024. Get started at www.speechanddebate.org/congress-submission.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Lincoln-Douglas Debate Resolved: The United States ought to prohibit the extraction of fossil fuels from federal public lands and waters.

NOVICE LINCOLN-DOUGLAS TOPIC The NSDA also offers an optional resolution that may be used during the first two months of a novice LD season— Resolved: In the United States, national service ought to be mandatory. Coaches are encouraged to check with tournament hosts in their area before exclusively prepping for one topic over another.

2023–2024

Policy Debate Resolved: The United States federal government should substantially increase fiscal redistribution in the United States by adopting a federal jobs guarantee, expanding Social Security, and/or providing a basic income.

Equity Topic Rubric

2023–2024

The NSDA conducts an intentional and ongoing evaluation of the topics we encourage students to explore. Download a copy of the Topic Rubric Questions at www.speechanddebate.org/equitytopic-rubric.

Resolved: Belief in the supernatural is incompatible with belief in science.

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GOVERNANCE

From Your Board President

s a coach, one aspect of speech and debate I love is the opportunity to learn alongside students. With every debate resolution, public address topic, or interpretation selection, a world of ideas and viewpoints are revealed. Nearly 20 years ago, an orator on our team, Sarah Koch, wrote a speech about the importance of fostering an “attitude of gratitude.” In it, she shared a story by Andy Rooney, a reporter, author, and editorialist most widely remembered as a commentator on 60 Minutes for more than 30 years. When Rooney learned one of his favorite high school teachers passed away, he said, “Mr. Hahn was one of the three most influential people in my life, and I never told him that.” I have never forgotten that story, nor the significance of expressing and appreciating gratitude. Fostering gratitude seems like a “no brainer.” However, for coaches, given the demands of teaching, coaching, fundraising, supervision, traveling, and program management, gratitude can take a back seat. Not only is this true for coaches, but also for all the individuals needed to support our efforts, including assistant coaches, parent volunteers, school administrators, and district leaders.

That’s why fostering gratitude is so important—whether it’s verbalizing thanks, sending a thank you note, or keeping a daily gratitude journal, an “attitude of gratitude” is valuable personally and for our community. Last summer, Joe and I decided to create a gathering centered on gratitude for our alumni booster parents. Our goal was to invite and reunite parent volunteers and administrators from over 30 years at Apple Valley and thank them for their support. When I shared the idea with one of our first booster parent leaders and her daughter, an extemper and debater, they loved it and graciously offered to host the event. At the forefront, we wanted our own “Mr. Hahns” to know how grateful we were for their volunteerism and support over the years! And we agreed that if parents decided to show their gratitude by supporting new or under-resourced programs through the Pay It Forward program, that would be an incredible bonus! On that day, from the moment people entered the door, the conversation was non-stop. Everyone was so happy! Although the connections spanned decades and almost all of them still lived in town, many had not seen each

In this season of giving thanks, how will you cultivate gratitude in your life and in our community?

other in years. Like an extended family, the conversations centered on a myriad of memories and life updates. They loved the opportunity to reminisce and reconnect. For us, two realizations stood out. One parent said, “You do all this work over the years to prepare tournament hospitality. I never thought people would remember. It means so much to know that wasn’t the case.” Another shared that she wanted to contribute to Pay It Forward because, “We are so happy to know this donation will help another school program provide the opportunity that was provided to our children.” As Sarah underscored years ago, the beauty of gratitude is that it’s cyclical. As Dr. David Stindl-Rast explains, “Gratitude begins with realizing what you are grateful for, acknowledging that gratitude, and finally, reciprocity.” In other words, gratitude is like a verb. It is found in action. How will you cultivate gratitude in your life and in our community? To be continued...

Pam Cady Wycoff NSDA Board President

If you would like to connect with Pam, please email pam.wycoff@speechanddebate.org. 8

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GOVERNANCE

Updated: 1/11/2021

Competition and Rules Board of Directors Leadership Committee

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INAUGURAL ELECTION

1202/11 /1 :detadpU The NSDA Board of Directors met September 29-30, 2023, and passed a final proposal from the Board’s Governance Committee to change the composition of the NSDA Board of Directors while creating a new standing committee focused on competition rules and interscholastic programming, the Competition and Rules Leadership Committee.

This article focuses on the spring election for that committee. For more background on the changes to the NSDA Board of Directors, the creation of this committee, and the governance processes that led there, visit www.speechanddebate.org/ board-composition-update.

About the Competition and Rules Leadership Committee By August 1, 2024, the NSDA will implement a new Competition and Rules Leadership Committee (CR Leadership Committee), which will serve as a standing committee as part of the Office of the Executive Director. This committee of speech and debate coaches and other members of various speech and debate communities will serve as a decision-making body dedicated to issues that focus on NSDA competitions and rules. The committee will be empowered to establish policies governing NSDA competition rules and event procedures. Depending on the nature of the action, the committee may work jointly with the Board of Directors on some policies when there are governance implications. The committee will also advise the Office of the Executive Director on the NSDA’s role in speech and debate interscholastic programming. The Executive Director will oversee this committee and be the primary conduit between it and the Board of Directors.

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srotceriD fo draoB

Eligibility and Candidacy

KOOBDNAH

Any member coach of any age with five years of NSDA coaching experience, who is listed as a member coach of record at an active member school, may become a candidate for election or appointment to the Competition and Rules Leadership Committee. • Candidates seeking election may submit a candidacy application, statement of 400 words or less, and high resolution photo via the NSDA website by January 12, 2024. Statements will be made available to voters leading up to the election. Visit www.speechanddebate.org/CR-election for more information and the candidacy application.

• Candidates seeking appointment by the Executive Director may submit an application for consideration, or be nominated for consideration. In 2024, the Executive Director will appoint an international representative, a middle school representative, and one other member (no NSDA affiliation necessary). More information on appointments will be available by January 2024.

Learn More www.speechanddebate.org/ board-composition-update

In 2024, candidates in the following regions will be eligible to run for election: • California Region (all CA) • Northern Midwest Region (IA, IL, IN, KS, MI, MN, WI) • East/Northeast Region (CT, DE, MA, MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, VT, WV) • Northwest/Northwest Central Region (AK, ID, MT, ND, NE, OR, SD, WA, WY)

• In total, eight active NSDA member coaches will be elected to represent eight regions throughout the United States. Representatives must coach at a member school within the region and reside in the region in which they represent. Four are being elected in 2024. In 2026, representatives will be elected from the remaining regions: • Texas Region (all TX) • Southeast Region (FL, GA, KY, NC, SC, VA) • Mountain/Southwest Region (AZ, CO, HI, NM, NV, UT)

Important Deadlines CR Leadership Committee candidacy applications and statements are due January 12, 2024. Online balloting will open in April 2024 and results will be announced later that month. Watch for more information on our website and in future coach newsletters.

Terms All CR Leadership Committee member terms will be three years in length. CR Leadership Committee members will be permitted to be appointed and/or elected to two consecutive terms and then a third term after completing a full-term hiatus.

Parameters for Competition and Rules Leadership Committee Service The CR Leadership Committee will consist of a minimum of 17 individuals, of which at least 75% will be active NSDA member coaches. • All active coach members on the current NSDA Board of Directors (Byron Arthur, David Huston, Adam Jacobi, and Renee Motter) will serve on the CR Leadership Committee for the duration of their terms on the Board, through July 2026. • Two appointed Board members (active coach members) will also serve on the CR Leadership Committee.

• Southern Midwest Region (AL, AR, LA, MO, MS, OK, TN) • At least one coach will be appointed to serve as an international representative. • At least one coach will be appointed to serve as a middle school coach representative. • Additional individuals will be appointed to the CR Leadership Committee. These individuals will be appointed by the Executive Director to fulfill the greatest needs of the committee at the time. There is no cap on the number of individuals the Executive Director can appoint. However, at least 75% of the CR Leadership Committee must remain populated by active NSDA member coaches.

The Role of the Competition and Rules Leadership Committee The CR Leadership Committee’s scope of influence will include: • Assessing student, coach, and school stakeholder needs through personal solicitation and by evaluating surveys and other feedback mechanisms. • Evaluating and providing input on NSDA products, services, and programs related to middle and high school speech competition, recognition, and resources. • Evaluating and establishing official rules and procedures for NSDA contests. • Evaluating other student-centric offerings for educational merit, value alignment, competitive integrity, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

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• Assessing the NSDA’s ability to successfully support diverse approaches to speech and debate programming across regions and state boundaries and in partnership with other national organizations. • Interpreting the NSDA to local and regional communities.

Competition and Rules Leadership Committee Meetings The CR Leadership Committee will meet online several times throughout the year, as well as sponsor other opportunities for stakeholder input as mentioned above. The members of the CR Leadership Committee will be paid a modest stipend for their participation, the amount of which will be determined annually through the budgeting process.

Future Leadership Opportunities • In the spring of 2025, the Executive Director will appoint at least two additional members to three-year terms on the CR Leadership Committee, beginning August 2025. • In the spring of 2026, there will be four Board appointments: two active NSDA coaches and two additional individuals will be appointed. The two newly appointed active coach members of the Board of Directors will also join the CR Leadership Committee for three-year terms. • In the spring of 2026, an election will be held to fill four seats on the CR Leadership Committee in the Texas, South/Southeast, Mountain/Southwest, and Southern Midwest Regions. The winners of these seats will join the CR Leadership Committee in August 2026 for three-year terms.

QUESTIONS? CONCERNS? IDEAS?

• The Executive Director will consider any additional appointments that should be made to the CR Leadership Committee based on needs, ensuring that at least 75% of the membership consists of active coaches.

Full Structure In Place By the fall of 2026, there will be a minimum of 11 Board members who have all been appointed and are serving current staggered terms and a minimum of 17 CR Leadership Committee members who have either been regionally elected or appointed by the Executive Director and are serving current staggered terms.

As the Competition and Rules Leadership Committee takes shape, the NSDA will shift to a 100% appointed Board of Directors of no less than 11 members by August 1, 2026. The Board of Directors is the legal governing entity of the Association and will retain responsibility for the ultimate direction of the management of the affairs of the organization, including serving as the primary policymakers and overseeing the Executive Director. Like today’s Board, this Board will be composed of coaches, at least one administrator, and other leaders with diverse education and/or nonprofit expertise. Note: The NSDA Board of Directors will also appoint a minimum of four active NSDA coach members from active NSDA member schools. Two active NSDA coaches will be appointed in 2024, and those Board members will also serve on the CR Leadership Committee. Candidates seeking appointment to the Board may submit an application for consideration, or be nominated for consideration. More information on these appointments, which will be vetted by the Board nominations committee, will be available by January 2024.

We want to hear from you! Send your feedback to board@speechanddebate.org. compiled by Amy Seidelman, Assistant Executive Director at the NSDA

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COMMUNITY

Coaches, please share these opportunities with your students and recent alumni!

A singular alliance with a shared focus provides a solid ground for conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion that can heal and unite our community. The Student Alliance allows participants to discuss the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion in speech and debate with kindness and care and find a more extensive network of friends and support.

About the Student Alliance

Goals

The Student Alliance is a community of students committed to engaging in conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion in speech and debate and sharing ideas and concerns with the national office through virtual and potentially in-person meetings. The Student Alliance is open to high school students from NSDA member schools.

As a result of participation in the Student Alliance, students will:

Meetings will occur two to three times throughout the year and will be led by the Student Alliance Leadership Team (SALT), consisting of the NSDA Director of DEI and four to five Peer Mentors. Together, SALT will brainstorm discussion topics and questions, facilitate dialogues during meetings, and ensure alignment with the NSDA mission and core values.

• Highlight and celebrate fellow students’ accomplishments working to promote equity, inclusion, and belonging in the activity.

Alumni – Apply to Be a Peer Mentor! Peer Mentors are speech and debate alums characterized as mature, dependable, and sound communicators who are sensitive to diversity, equity, and inclusion issues and display enthusiasm and affinity for the National Speech & Debate Association. The responsibilities of Peer Mentors include (but are not limited to): • serving as an advocate for the interests and needs of Student Alliance participants, • working with the Director of DEI to set meeting agendas and direction for discussion, and • assisting in facilitating dialogues during Student Alliance sessions. Alumni interested in being a Peer Mentor may apply online using the following link: www.speechanddebate.org/studentalliance-peer-mentoring-application.

• Encourage understanding of the diverse identities and ideologies among fellow students participating in speech and debate. • Create opportunities for other students to engage with NSDA leadership about issues of DEI.

• Promote a culture of competition with respect for different lived experiences and worldviews. • Equip themselves with tools to facilitate conversations about equity (defined as operational processes, practices, and spaces that affirm identity, promote inclusion, and ensure the conditions of fairness) in speech and debate.

Join Us for Our First Meeting! The first Student Alliance meeting will take place at 7:00 p.m. CT via Zoom on Tuesday, December 5, 2023. This will be an introductory meeting where participants will review the mission and purpose of the Student Alliance, go over conversation guidelines, and participate in a “getting to know you” activity. We also will discuss the difference between dialogue, discussion, and debate. Students can register for meetings at www.speechanddebate.org/student-alliance. For more information, please contact Dr. Paul Porter, NSDA Director of DEI, at paul.porter@speechanddebate.org.

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COMMUNITY

FACES IN THE CROWD

highlights individuals whose everyday

actions embody the NSDA’s core value of equity and help make speech and debate a more inclusive and supportive activity. Through the actions, attitudes, and leadership shown, these stories are a gentle reminder that even in competition, our community is rich with kindness and care. The individuals in this piece were nominated by either their students, teammates, coaches, or members of the speech and debate community. Join us in celebrating these faces in the crowd! — compiled by Dr. Paul Porter and Jessica Kincannon

ABHISHEK BHAGAT

SHANE CUNNINGHAM

KERRY KONDA

KATHY TOBIN

Jordan High School, Texas

Cookeville High School, Tennessee

Aberdeen Central High School, South Dakota

Willard High School, Missouri

Nominated by Siya Halapeti

Nominated by members of the Cookeville High School speech and debate team

Nominated by Abiah George

Nominated by Adalea Vaughn

Once an extremely shy and sheltered student, Abhishek set out to build his confidence by joining speech and debate. Seeing the confidence it instilled in himself and his peers, he created Debate Made Accessible, a non-profit that provides free public speaking classes to low-income youth. He has 100+ students from eight states and seven countries with a team of 20 coaches who provide these classes. He is committed to helping our youth find their voices and breaking the barriers to enter into speech and debate.

When I first joined speech last year as a freshman, I was the youngest on my team, but Mr. Cunningham never treated me as inferior, and truly made me feel as if I could succeed at any event. — Clara Oldham He embodies the core value of equity because he gives equal attention to all those who need it. He sees students who are struggling and will help them to level the playing field and make sure we are all confident. — Abigail Alford

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Mr. Konda was the first person who told me that my story was worth sharing. Being in South Dakota, I felt very isolated in my struggle with my immigration status. My coach, Mr. Konda, had never heard about my visa or the struggles that came with it ever before. Yet, the second I shared my story with him, he was the most supportive person. There were days when it felt like there was no light at the end of the tunnel, but he was always there to remind me that I wasn’t alone.

She has nurtured and grown the talents of me and my other teammates so well in an area where kids who look like me are not always welcomed or accepted. Kathy Tobin gave me a place to speak, be heard, and belong; because of this, I and many others are forever grateful as she held open doors to her spectacular team and provided a space where you could not only achieve but be recognized entirely for that achievement. Her incredible and inclusive coaching showcases what speech and debate is.

RYAN WHALEN

IVY ZHANG

Reagan High School, Texas

Crean Lutheran High School, California

Nominated by Phillip DiPiazza

Nominated by Weiqiang Wang

When I think of Ryan, I think of one thing: bridges. While odd, this word embodies everything he does. He does everything within his power to make sure incoming speech and debate students at Reagan feel comfortable and happy within the activity. He makes every attempt to create interscholastic events and initiatives within the district. Most importantly, wherever and whenever it is, he is always there to ensure that everyone feels connected, empowered, and safe within the speech and debate space.

Ivy has been a speech and debate competitor for a number of years. The past 2022-2023 season, she did not qualify. However, that did not deter her from participating in Nationals. She took the initiative to travel to Phoenix and interviewed 25+ Asian American/Pacific Islander coaches and competitors to ask them about their speech and debate experiences through the AAPI lens. She has produced a mini-documentary to help promote AAPI in this community.

Dr. Paul Porter is the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the NSDA. Jessican Kincannon serves as a Content Specialist at the NSDA.

Do you know someone who should be featured? FILL OUT A NOMINATION FORM TODAY!

www.speechanddebate.org / faces-in-the-crowd

What is the Multicultural Learning Alliance (MLA)? The MLA is a learning community for coaches who are passionate about supporting their students from all identities, particularly those from traditionally underrepresented populations. What makes the MLA special is its deliberate design as a safe space where coaches can explore critical topics without fear or threat of making a misstep. It is a judgment-free zone where you can expand your knowledge base, gain a foundational understanding of diversity-related topics, and develop strategies to navigate the challenges that many of our students face. If you are a coach with a genuine desire to learn more about communicating effectively in diverse spaces, or if you want to create a better atmosphere—where all students are heard, valued, and understood—join the MLA.

Register for an upcoming session! SESSION 1: Establishing the MLA December 7, 2023 | 7:00 p.m. CT SESSION 2: Understanding Multicultural Competence January 24, 2024 | 7:00 p.m. CT SESSION 3: Discussing Diverse Lived Experiences February 21, 2024 | 7:00 p.m. CT SESSION 4: Unconscious Bias March 20, 2024 | 7:00 p.m. CT SESSION 5: Understanding Microaggressions April 17, 2024 | 7:00 p.m. CT SESSION 6: Creating DEI Action Plans May 15, 2024 | 7:00 p.m. CT

Learn more on our website:

www.speechanddebate.org/mla

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WORKING WITH YOUNG PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT THEY ‘CAN’T’ HAS BEEN THE GREATEST PRIVILEGE. TO SEE THE IMPOSSIBLE MATERIALIZE BEFORE MY EYES, JUST BECAUSE I HAD FAITH; BECAUSE I TRUSTED IN THEM; BECAUSE I TOLD THEM WE COULD LOSE BUT NEVER YIELD; BUT MOSTLY, BECAUSE THEY BELIEVED. AS ROBERT F. KENNEDY ONCE SAID, ‘I DREAM THINGS THAT NEVER WERE AND SAY, WHY NOT?’

ARTURO FÉLIZ-CAMILO Speech and Debate Coach at Colegio Bilingüe New Horizons, Dominican Republic

W E A R E S P E E C H & D E B AT E www.speechanddebate.org

COMMUNITY

NEWS + NOTES Member Recognition Each year, the NSDA recognizes a variety of achievements among its members, including the list of Top 100 Schools, Club Awards, Leading Chapter Awards, and All American Awards. Join us in celebrating the winners for 2022-2023! For complete details, check out the announcements at www.speechanddebate.org/pressreleases.

Recent Board Minutes The minutes from the Board of Directors’ fall meeting are available online at www.speechanddebate.org/minutes-archive. Review the article on page 26 for an additional explanation of recent rules updates, and check out the article on page 10 for an overview of the Competition and Rules Leadership Committee inaugural election to be held in the spring of 2024.

NSDA Learn Courses

Native American Heritage Month This November, we invite you to commemorate Native American Heritage Month with our classroom posters and competition resources, including a literature collection featuring works by and about Native American and Indigenous Peoples. To learn more, visit our website at www.speechanddebate.org/native-american-heritagemonth.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities In honor of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, we have created a poster series featuring speech and debate coaches and alumni! In addition, you’ll find a literature collection featuring stories by and about persons with disabilities. Access the materials online at www.speechanddebate.org/international-day-of-personswith-disabilities.

Use our free, self-paced online courses to increase your knowledge of Lincoln-Douglas Debate, or share them with students for independent learning or as a peer coaching resource. The four course introductory set includes Intro to Coaching LD, Intro to Philosophy in Debate, Intro to Framework, and Intro to Kritiks. Enroll online today at www.speechanddebate.org/learn.

Policy Debate Topic Selection Member students and one chapter advisor per active school are invited to rank the final two Policy topic resolutions offered for 2024-2025. A synopsis of the topic areas is available online at www.speechanddebate.org/topics. Voting ends Friday, December 15, 2023.

Postage Report The NSDA submits an annual postage report for Rostrum as required by the U.S. Postal Service. Visit www.speechanddebate.org/2023-postagereport for details.

Questions? We’re here to help! Email info@speechanddebate.org or call (920) 748-6206. ROSTRUM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

View the schedule and learn more:

free scrimmages presented by The Julia Burke Foundation Your team is invited to join fellow speech and debate students across the nation for a variety of FREE, after-school, synchronous and asynchronous online practice sessions through our Springboard Series!

• NON-MEMBERS WELCOME – NSDA membership is not required!

2024 Springboard Series Scrimmage Dates: J A N U A RY

Tuesday, January 9 ASYNC

Thursday, January 11 LIVE

Thursday, January 18 LIVE

Tuesday, January 23 ASYNC

SPRINGBOARD CAPSTONE TOURNAMENT – Saturday, January 20 F E B R U A RY

Tuesday, February 6 ASYNC

Thursday, February 8 LIVE

Tuesday, February 20 ASYNC

Thursday, February 22 LIVE

MARCH

Tuesday, March 5 LIVE

Thursday, March 7 LIVE

Tuesday, March 19 ASYNC

Thursday, March 21 ASYNC

speechanddebate.org/springboard-series

COMMUNITY

SPEECH AND DEBATE ORGANIZATIONS FORGE COLLABORATIVE FUTURE by Dr. James Weaver

Representatives from prominent speech and debate organizations convened September 15-16, 2023, for the inaugural U.S. Speech and Debate Organizational Summit. Held in Denver, Colorado, the event kicked off with NFHS Director of Performing Arts Dr. James Weaver and NSDA Executive Director Scott Wunn co-chairing the meeting. Attendees witnessed the assembly of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA), National Catholic Forensic League (NCFL), National Debate Coaches Association (NDCA), National Association for Urban Debate Leagues (NAUDL), Tournament of Champions (TOC), and National Individual Events Tournament of Champions (NIETOC)—acronyms that collectively shoulder the responsibility of steering the nation’s speech and debate landscape. The discussions covered a broad spectrum, embracing legislative impacts, advisory boards, committees, and more. This open dialogue

fostered understanding and respect for the intricate processes unfolding within each organization, laying the groundwork for future collaboration. Appreciating how each organization functions and knowing the reach and limitations helped everyone understand the reality of what could be possible.

Addressing the Elephants in the Room Coaching shortages were acknowledged as persistent issues, with rural school outreach similarly spotlighted. Each representative lent their voice to articulate these challenges, dissecting their nature and exploring the avenues available for their redressal. Often, opportunities are nestled within the challenges. The main focus moved quickly to a “yes-and” approach. There are a lot of great opportunities for students in speech and debate. All of the organizations agreed they want more students in this great activity, which provides skills that will last a lifetime. The trick is finding a way to broaden

access and create a national environment where anyone can participate—a lofty goal, but one worth reaching toward.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Non-negotiable The crucial realm of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has been a focus for the speech and debate community for a long time. Although much work has been accomplished, there is always work to be done. The conversation on DEI was a call for introspection and commitment, urging organizations to emphasize the measures taken to embed DEI within their tournament structures. Each representative affirmed the irreplaceable importance of DEI at their respective events. Summit participants proposed the formulation of a consistent model, a document embodying the principles and practices promoting DEI at events. This document, envisaged as a beacon guiding organizations, would serve as a tangible manifestation of the commitment vocalized within the room.

Collaboration: The Way Forward Moving forward, these organizations will begin the formation of subcommittees to dive deeper into the difficult but important topics outlined during the discussions: • Collaborative development of DEI best practices

• Research into event safety and emergency action plans • Design of educational standards-based strategies for increasing speech and debate participation • Focus on rural school development • Creation of a workforce development model to help recruit and retain coaches Goals were etched clearly, with a vision set for a 30% increase in student participation and a 20% increase in school involvement by 2030.

The Work Continues The summit reached its conclusion with gratitude. Representatives, carrying the weight and the promise of the discussions, expressed their appreciation for the opportunity and the dialogue shared. Each one left with eyes fixed on the horizon, envisioning the pledged work ahead and ready to achieve goals that are immediate and long-term. With the inaugural U.S. Speech and Debate Organizational Summit at a close, it is time to roll up the sleeves and get to work. The future needs action, and our students benefit when we all work together.

For inquiries about the summit and ensuing initiatives, please email jweaver@nfhs.org.

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MEMBERSHIP MINUTE

MEET THE INAUGURAL CLASS The inaugural class of the Student Leadership

Nominations for the 2024-2025 SLC are

Council began their one-year term in August. The

open for high school students graduating in

SLC was launched in 2022 to create more avenues

or after 2025. Learn more about the process

for student voice in organizational decision-making

or submit a nomination by February 15 for

and programming. So far this year, members

consideration by your NSDA district!

have produced content for social media, written for Rostrum, produced new resources, offered feedback on service points, and collaborated on ways to encourage speech and debate participation—and they’re just getting started!

www.speechanddebate.org/ student-leadership-council-nomination

compiled by Annie Reisener, Director of Membership at the NSDA

2023-2024 Student Leadership Council Members

Nicollette Arabie

Gabby Garner

Buffalo High School Texas

Petal High School Mississippi

Lauren Beesley

Solomon Goluboff-Schragger

Idaho Falls High School Idaho

Charlottesville High School Virginia

Sam Chen

Maxwell Harrison

Boston Latin School Massachusetts

Edmond Santa Fe High School Oklahoma

Claire Curran

Dariel Herrera

Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School Indiana

Plymouth High School Indiana

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2023-2024 Student Leadership Council Members (continued) Aspyn Kaskalla

Esther Oyetunji

Navajo Preparatory School New Mexico

American Heritage School – Broward Florida

Nora Khalilian

Isabella Palacio

Grandview High School Colorado

Sage Hill School California

Aaimah Khawaja

Bohan Pan

Lakeville North High School Minnesota

Ladue Horton Watkins High School Missouri

Taite Kirkpatrick

Nora Shitandi

Mount Vernon High School Washington

Har-Ber High School Arkansas

Meherika Majumdar

Anish Thota

Saigon South International School Vietnam

Charlotte Latin School North Carolina

Numa Mujeeb

Gabriel Torres

Notre Dame Academy Ohio

Clear Brook High School Texas

Nicholas Ostheimer

Hayden Watkins

Florida Atlantic University High School Florida

Rowan County Senior High School Kentucky

John Otto

Jade Young

Springfield Catholic High School Missouri

Midlothian High School Texas

Learn more about the current SLC members by visiting www.speechanddebate.org/student-leadership-council. ROSTRUM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

RESOURCE ROUNDUP most important measure of success to administrators is demonstrable student growth and love of competing. A growing team shows the passion students have. To continue to prioritize growth and learning, push for additional staffing to support that passion. This is a great place to insert any coach-to-student ratios from other programs in your area to demonstrate a disadvantage.

Comparisons to Other Activities

MAKING THE PITCH FOR AN ASSISTANT COACH As a speech and debate coach, you wear many hats. You are a chaperone, travel agent, accountant, fundraiser, teacher, researcher, director, mediator, cheerleader— the list goes on. As programs grow or life changes, many coaches find themselves needing additional heads to wear these various hats! That’s where assistant coaches come in. Assistant coaches can take many forms, from young alumni, to administrative support, to event-specific leadership. Whatever form they take, assistant coaches are an incredible asset but are also a luxury; extra help means additional funding, and so many programs are already struggling to get the financial support they need. The NSDA Learn course on Requesting, Hiring, and Mentoring Assistant Coaches will help you assess your needs and goals, craft your pitch, and prepare to hire and onboard your new team member.

Potential Arguments to Support Your Need for an Assistant Team Size/Growth As your team grows, you’re spread thinner and have less time to dedicate to working individually with students. Those individual coaching sessions are so critical to students understanding where to focus their time and energy to improve their skills and to continue feeling valued and connected to the program. It’s important to explain to administrators who are less familiar with speech and debate that, while you are a team, students compete individually or in pairs, sort of like track and field, and need personal coaching and feedback. Coaches report that the compiled by Annie Reisener, Director of Membership at the NSDA

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Most speech and debate seasons are longer than that of almost any other activity, spanning from September to May or June. The competitions are also far longer, often taking place over multiple days. Do your best to collect info about other programs at your school. • How long are their seasons and their competitions? • How many hours a week do coaches spend at practices? • How large are their teams? • How many have assistants? • What do those programs have in common and how does yours stack up? You’ll likely find your season is longer, your competitions are longer, and your practice schedule is just as intense as programs at your school with assistant coaches. There are two arguments to be made here: equity and work-life balance. Coaches are sacrificing personal time (and money!) both after school and on weekends to give students the opportunity to compete. Having an assistant can give you some of that time back to focus on your mental and physical health and ensure that you don’t burn out.

Competitive Success/Achievements Coaches report that the second most important measure of program success to administrators is local competitive success, like individual awards, sweepstakes, etc. Build yourself a brag book and use it to advocate that your successes justify additional coaching for you to maintain them, particularly if your team has grown. Include things like tournament wins, sweepstakes, and positive press for the school or district.

Enroll for FREE Today! Find more support for hiring and working with an assistant coach with the complete NSDA Learn course, which offers success stories from programs using each of these arguments. Visit www.speechanddebate.org/learn/courses/assistantcoaches to get started. This NSDA Learn course is made possible by the Glenda Ferguson Memorial Fund. Glenda was a Hall of Fame coach who led teams in both Texas and Oklahoma. She was known for her mentorship and commitment to supporting others.

The ﬁrst AI-powered coaching app for Speech & Debate! Ready for your PF, LD, Congress, Oratory, or Extemp speeches. Give a speech and get instant feedback about: • Argumentation • Content • Structure • Delivery • Style • Strategy

Download Now!

COMMUNITY

TABROOM.COM TIP

LINKING STUDENTS IN TABROOM.COM by Shunta- Jordan

As students are added to your school rosters in Tabroom.com this season, you want to make sure these individuals have “linked” Tabroom.com accounts.

if your students’ Tabroom. com accounts are linked correctly to the student competitors on your school roster.

Students need individual Tabroom.com accounts to access online competition rooms and receive the latest tournament updates. As a coach, it’s important to check

First, make sure your students have Tabroom. com accounts. If they do not, they will need to create one at www.tabroom.com. They will choose “Sign Up”;

figure 1

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if they have an NSDA account, they can create a Tabroom. com account using their NSDA account information. If they do not have an NSDA account, they will complete the information in the “Non-NSDA Members” section (figure 1). Please make sure the email address and phone number the students enter are ones they

can access directly, as this is the way they will get blasts about rounds, information about tournaments they plan to attend, etc. In particular, the email address is what the students will give you so that you can add them to your roster. Once the students have completed the form, they

figure 2

should select “Create Login.” Then, they should send you the email address that they entered in the form. Coaches, you should then log in to your own Tabroom. com account. You should see your school’s name in the left corner. Under it, select the “Competitors” tab. Once you are on the Competitors page, you are looking for a couple of things. First, find out which of your students are already linked. You will see this in the bottom section labeled “Active Competitors.” Students who are already linked will have their email address visible in the column labeled “Account.” If they are not linked, this column will be blank (figure 2). To link an unlinked student, get the email address they used when they created their account. Select an unlinked student’s name, which will take you to a separate screen (figure 3). Once on the second page, you will see the student’s name and an option to “Link to [Email address of Tabroom account]” in a box to the right. Enter the email associated with the student in that box, and select the blue “Search” button. When it finds a match, you will see “Linked to Tabroom login,” the email address, and the student’s name. Your student

figure 3

figure 4

has been linked! You will repeat this for every student who is unlinked. Second, under the “Competitors” tab, check for any students who have requested online access (figure 4). In the example, you will notice a student has created a Tabroom.com account with an associated

Shunta- Jordan serves as Tournament Services Manager at the NSDA.

email address. You will also find a green check mark box and a red X box to the right of the email address. When you are certain this student is on your roster and the displayed email address is correct, select the green check mark box. Then

select the “Competitors” tab to refresh. You should see the newly linked student’s email next to their graduation year in the “Active Competitors” list. Repeat this for any student who is added to your roster. Happy linking!

To learn more about Tabroom.com features, please visit docs.tabroom.com ROSTRUM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

COMMUNITY

NEW RULES SUMMARIES by Deano Pape As a community, it is important that we have a continuous discussion of the norms (event practices that are based upon local, regional, or even national behaviors anticipated in those areas) and rules (formal policies and procedures adopted by the NSDA Competition Rules Board and codified in rules manuals) of our activity. Growth and change are expected in any activity that seeks to engage its members in best practices for students to gain knowledge and learn skills that are vitally important to a healthy society. The Competition Rules Board meets regularly to consider proposals made by our membership to encourage engagement and

ensure that the activity is sustainable for many generations of students and coaches in the future. The minutes of those meetings are available online at www.speechanddebate.org/ minutes-archive to keep the membership informed. This month, we highlight some of the most recent changes to formal rules made by the Competition Rules Board as it regards Nationals qualifications and how students will participate in supplemental events at Nationals. It is important that you read the full minutes so that you have a complete understanding of the rule changes and the rationale presented by the committee. Unlike other articles in this series, we will not be examining norms. These rule changes take effect this academic year.

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Access Competition Rules Board minutes »

www.speechanddebate.org/ minutes-archive

World Schools Debate Let’s begin with a rules change that was initially accepted as a pilot (to be reconsidered before permanent adoption), and then rescinded based upon feedback from the speech and debate community. The Competition Rules Board, in an effort to promote more participation in World Schools Debate (WS), had determined that each NSDA district could continue to send two teams to Nationals, but that one would consist entirely of students from one school, and the other would be a hybrid model (students from multiple schools within the district on one WS team). What the Competition Rules Board discovered during this pilot period of adoption was that the

vast majority of districts prefer hybrid teams—the model promotes greater cooperation among schools within a district, provides opportunities for students to get to know each other and learn from each other, and supports small schools that might not be able to field a full WS team on their own. Thus, the Competition Rules Board rescinded the pilot rule, and now districts can continue to compose their teams as desired at the local level, which may be all hybrid teams, all singleschool teams, or one of each. The Competition Rules Board made two changes to the rules to promote WS participation while also providing greater flexibility for each District Committee to select members for their teams.

First, districts may now determine if student participation in their district tournament series in another event is a prerequisite for eligibility to be on the district WS team. Second, WS will be offered at the Last-Chance Qualifier with single-school teams. Previously, students were required to participate in their district qualifier to be considered for the WS teams. Since WS has not been offered at the LastChance Qualifier in the past, a new opportunity opens up for those students who were not selected for their district WS teams to join their own school-based teams.

Supplemental Events at Nationals The number of students competing in supplemental events at Nationals has grown tremendously in just the past two years. Recent rules changes allowing member schools to send two non-qualifying students in supplemental events, combined with the introduction of the Last-Chance Qualifier with additional students in main events (and, therefore, more supplemental events as well), create a challenge in identifying host schools large enough to hold an entire supplemental event such as Extemporaneous Debate. Therefore, the Competition Rules Board has made a significant change to how Nationals will operate when it comes

to the management of supplemental events. The rule change permits the division of the entire field of Extemporaneous Debate participants as well as the seven supplemental speech events offered at Nationals. Thus, Extemporaneous Debate may be offered in Building A and Building B, with roughly equal numbers of competitors in each building, while a full set of speech events will be offered in each Building C and Building D. There will be a top debater in Building A in Extemporaneous Debate and a top debater in Building B—they will meet in a final round to determine the national champion. The same will take place for the speech events—the top three students in each speech event in Building C will compete against the top three in Building D to identify the national champion in each individual event. You can review the details of the separation in the minutes of the September Competition Rules Board meeting, but the fundamental strategy will offer 1) roughly equal numbers of pre-registered competitors in each building, 2) randomly placed, 3) with students from the same districts competing together in the same buildings. States with four or more districts will find that roughly half of their districts will compete

in separate buildings from the remaining districts in their state. This rule change offers many advantages, both for teams as well as tournament administrators. It continues to afford the opportunity for everyone who wants to participate and re-register to compete; tournament buildings will see a reduced volume of students and a more reasonable schedule. Since many NSDA districts share resources, such as transportation and chaperones, it will ensure that a district’s competitors all go to the same two buildings for supplemental events instead of four different buildings, so as not to add more stops on a transportation loop. Judges can also be better targeted to evaluate speeches and debates in the same buildings as the competitors. All of us at the NSDA look forward to an enjoyable and educational experience for everyone involved in supplemental events at the National Tournament.

Internet Use in Extemporaneous Debate The Competition Rules Board adopted a change in Extemporaneous Debate that mirrors what many other debate events currently do. While students have been allowed to use the internet during prep time, they are now permitted to access the internet during rounds. This

brings Extemporaneous Debate into alignment with internet use in Public Forum, Policy, LincolnDouglas, and Big Questions.

Generative Artificial Intelligence The Competition Rules Board has added clarity to rules related to generative artificial intelligence. Students in original speech events are prohibited from quoting or paraphrasing text generated by generative artificial intelligence or citing it as a source. The only exception to this rule is if the topic of artificial intelligence is used. Review the full minutes for details on this exception. Debaters may not cite generative artificial intelligence. The original source of any quoted or paraphrased evidence must be available if requested. Students in interpretive events are prohibited from performing material created by generative artificial intelligence. The original source of all material performed must be available if requested.

If you have any questions on the NSDA rules, please reach out to us at info@ speechanddebate.org. Have a wonderful year of competition!

Deano Pape is a competition and events Support Specialist with the NSDA.

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

AUTHENTICALLY JADE On Overcoming and Coming Out by Annie Reisener

Editor’s Note: This article contains references to suicidal ideation.

compiled by Amy Seidelman

Jade Ismail is the NSDA’s 2023 William Woods Tate, Jr., National Student of the Year.

t the 2022 National Tournament, Jade Ismail stepped on to the final round stage in a crisp white suit and four-inch stilettos to address the audience in the introduction of her Program Oral Interpretation titled Monsters in the Closet. “Today, I stand here in the clothes that are authentically me and am finally ready to share my

story,” Jade said, pausing for thunderous applause. “I am a proud Black trans woman. And to younger me, and every other queer kid hiding, you are loved, you are seen, and you are not a monster.”

Beginnings Jade and her siblings spent time in foster care as children with her

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dad out of the picture and her mom in prison. Things steadied when her grandma adopted them, but around fourth grade, Jade began to realize she wasn’t who society wanted her to be. “We lived in a small rural town, and I experienced a lot of hate for acting feminine,” Jade says. “This strained my relationship with my grandmother.” In middle school, Jade was accepted at a magnet academy. It was there that she discovered speech and debate and quickly became competitively successful as she explored facets of her identity through literature. In ninth grade, the tension with her grandmother escalated after she posted an Instagram picture of a tutu she wore to practice. “My grandma called and threatened that if ‘he’ did it again, there’d be no more speech and

debate,” Jade remembers. Later, Jade dressed in drag to perform in a masquerade murder play. When her grandma found a picture, she threatened to sue and withdrew her from the team right before national qualifiers.

Perseverance Jade was removed from her found family on the team and isolated from her siblings by her grandmother. During this time of turmoil, COVID-19 hit and things shut down. “It was the worst era of my life,” Jade says. “I was trapped in a terrible environment where I was made to believe that everything about me was wrong. My depression got really bad, and I struggled with suicidal thoughts.” To give herself something to hold on to, she contacted Jacob Simon, coach of

Comeaux High School in Louisiana, about enrolling there. “It’s a traditionally Black school, and my grandma thought it would straighten me out,” Jade says. “I wiggled onto the speech team online for sophomore year.” Her junior year, Jade’s grandmother refused to transport her to Comeaux. Unwilling to lose her life raft, Jade reached out to the Comeaux principal, who committed to going out of her way to personally drive her to school every day. Jade began waking up at 4:00 a.m. to get to school as things with her grandmother reached a breaking point. “At Christmas, I wasn’t allowed to go with my family on their trip and had to spend it home alone,” Jade remembers. “I didn’t know where to turn. Even my chosen family had biological families who loved them.” Before long, Jade was kicked out of the

Watch Jade’s National Tournament performances!

2022 POI

2023 POI

house, but was taken in by an uncle.

Catharsis As her home life was going up in flames, her POI was undefeated. It was a deeply personal piece about the way Hollywood gives villains apparently queer traits, implying that queer people could only be monsters. Jade determined that she wanted to be truly herself at Nationals. While she was out to some of her teammates, people still used her dead name at school, and she was still masculinepresenting. She ordered a pair of heels online, took lessons in how to walk in them, and borrowed a white skirt suit from the team’s closet, which she loved for its purity. “Nationals felt like a dystopian universe where everything was right,” Jade reflects. “Seeing people embrace me felt like the beginning of something good in my life. People asked for my pronouns! The whole experience was cathartic. I came out of every round crying.” It was there on the final round stage that Jade came out to most of the people in her life. “I had never even said ‘I’m trans’

out loud before!” she says. “I was fearful, but it was time. I knew I had to do it. That performance was an out of body experience, but on that final page of the program, I felt every second.”

Reflections Now, with that experience in the rearview, Jade is able to reflect on what it meant to her. “That reception to coming out...to be shown that I wasn’t the monster, to have thousands show me that I was a light, it was the best moment of my entire life,” she says. “Speech and

debate saved my life. It showed me a version of myself I hadn’t known before. I became part of a community. It gave me a purpose, a passion, a future, a reason to live.” Being out had its own challenges, especially returning to Nationals as a senior with the weight and attention of a returning champion. “I have always felt like people see me as more queer than Black— like they don’t see my Blackness or didn’t want to hear Black stories from me. I felt I had to choose an identity. I’m

Jade is currently on scholarship studying and competing at Western Kentucky University. Her goal is to help kids in foster care and change the system of which she once was a part.

trying to unlearn that,” Jade says, reflecting on her 2023 piece that cast a spotlight on the epidemic of survival sex trade among Black trans youth. But more than just her performances, Jade faced a different kind of attention. “There’s a pressure to be this perfect representation. I have to always be ‘on,’ or I’m painting my community in a bad light,” Jade says. “I have to remind myself that I am as worthy of having a spectrum of emotions as everyone else. I try to be a light: to let people see a trans woman laughing, smiling, being herself. I tell myself to ‘Put your best Jade forward.’”

Annie Reisener serves as Director of Membership at the NSDA.

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COMMUNITY

KEVIN D’MELLO

UNSUNG HEROES OF SPEECH AND DEBATE compiled by Vicki Joss

In this season of giving thanks, we invited NSDA members to celebrate the speech and debate supporters who have made a difference in their school or local community.

Celebrate Supporters with Honorary NSDA Membership Did you know you can elect an adult who has contributed to your team to be an honorary National Speech & Debate Association member? This is a great way to generate buy-in from administrators or honor a parent who helps your team! Honorary members must be adults who have contributed in some significant way to the speech and debate program of the local chapter, but have not earned Association membership as a student or instructor. A chapter may elect one Honorary member for each 100 members and degrees earned by that chapter, not more than one a year. Get started at www.speechanddebate.org/honorarymembership-certificate-request-form.

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Parent Raymond S. Kellis High School, AZ Kevin has truly gone above and beyond as a supportive parent to our new speech and debate program here at Kellis. He has helped transport students to events, has brought in his friends and neighbors to be volunteer judges, and has donated tax credit multiple times to help our program grow financially. He is truly a reliable, responsible, and dedicated parent and member of our community. We thank Kevin for all that he does for our students. — Nominated by Michaela Sharif

CHERI DUNCAN ASB Secretary Mount Vernon High School, WA Let’s be honest... a debate team can cause a lot of extra work for a school bookkeeper! Already this year, we have asked Ms. Duncan to prepare 100 purchase orders, account for the sale of 4,800 candy bars, and take on the herculean task of making and collecting payments for one of the biggest tournaments in Washington state! Yet, Ms. Duncan always comes through for us with a smile on her face. She is a true member of our team. — Nominated by Kelley Kirkpatrick

SAM FERRIS Assistant Coach, Volunteer Judge Maryville High School, MO Sam has been a volunteer alumni judge for Maryville High School for years. When the team’s long-time coach Trudy Kinman retired, Sam stepped in to coach the team after school in order to keep the program going since the school couldn’t find a full-time coach. Sam will always be found at conference, state, and national qualifying tournaments in order to be sure that only the best from our area advance. Sam has traveled with other schools to NSDA Nationals to be their judge when needed. — Nominated by Kimberly Lenger

LORI GURLEY Bookkeeper Valdosta High School, GA Mrs. Gurley is a godsend to the Valdosta High School speech and debate program. She keeps our books and writes the checks so that we are able to compete. But more than that, she cares about the kids and their competition. She gives so much of herself—she judges at the tournaments we host, she supports our fundraisers, and she always congratulates the competitors when she sees them. Speech and debate is not the biggest program in our school, but she always remembers who did well at a tournament. — Nominated by Pamela Childress

PAUL JURENKA Coaching Assistant, Former Team Parent Mount Vernon High School, WA “Papa Jurenka,” as our team calls him, had a son who graduated several years ago and was a member of the team. Afterward, he kept coming back to help our team in any way he could! He’s helped us with transportation to tournaments, he volunteers to help run ours, and he makes sure nobody on the team goes hungry during long Saturday competition days! The team wouldn’t be the same—competitively and environmentally—without his positive influence. — Nominated by Taite Kirkpatrick

JENNIFER KASKALLA CHRIS HECKER Principal Cypress Park High School, TX Not only does Mr. Hecker show up to tournaments, he also has sat in rounds and watched his Tigers perform on multiple occasions. Principal Hecker has gone way above and beyond supporting our speech and debate program. And his support doesn’t just stop at tournaments. He has personally advocated for me to join the Student Leadership Committee, and he was so kind to write a letter of recommendation. Thank you, Principal Hecker. — Nominated by Nicole Lee

RYAN HENNESSEY District Administrator Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District, TX Ryan does an incredible job supporting the 12 debate programs in our school district! He does not hesitate to come in and assist in ANY classroom when asked. He goes above and beyond to help when the schools in our district host a tournament. When I took my novices to their very first tournament, Ryan volunteered his time on a Friday after school to judge a round, just so students could observe and ask questions for their learning benefit. He has a true heart for kids and for this activity! — Nominated by Tammi Raley

Assistant Coach, Parent, Administrative Assistant Navajo Preparatory School, NM Jen is the assistant to the Associate Head of School here at Navajo Preparatory School, and her granddaughter is on the team, but her support goes far beyond what you might expect given either of those roles. Since day one, she’s put in countless hours of her time every week to ensure our fledgling team was able to jump through the logistical and financial hoops needed to succeed. She cares deeply about all of our competitors, even driving six hours round trip to most tournaments to ensure they’re fed and cared for! — Nominated by John Russell

KATHY MCALEER Parent Battle Ground High School, WA Kathy supports the team on the whole and helps make our team’s dreams reality! Our program is new and we are growing much faster than we can afford. Kathy has taken it upon herself to scout the community for judges and steer the direction of the Activities Booster Club toward funding the speech and debate team almost exclusively. She paves the way for our students to have meaningful experiences through this activity. Without Kathy, our students would not have the opportunities they have today. — Nominated by Corinne Altotsky

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BERNADETTE O’LEARY Principal Saint John School, WA As principal of St. John School, Mrs. O’Leary has laid the foundation for the success of our newly established program by creating a climate of support and removing barriers. All students are encouraged to join our program, and when support is needed, the answer is always yes. As a new coach, working with Mrs. O’Leary has been gratifying. Her interest in issues impacting the speech and debate world, including artificial intelligence and amplifying BIPOC voices, resulted in forensics topic inclusion throughout the middle school. — Nominated by Sue Pierce

ANDY RAABE Team CFO, Former Team Parent George Washington High School, CO Andy is an unsung hero due to his lasting support of our team. Andy’s daughters were members of our team from 2016-2021. Yet, Andy still volunteers as our treasurer/ CFO. He has upgraded our team’s communication and banking systems, ensuring oversight and digital paperwork for all of our financial transactions. Andy manages our payroll for assistant coaches and judges as well as prepares and files our taxes as a 501(c)(3) organization. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition. — Nominated by Devin Sarno

CRYSTAL ROMANELLI Director of Instruction Cypress Park High School, TX Crystal is a very supportive administrator. Any time we have had a UIL competition, she has shown up to support our Tigers. Even when we went out of town for regionals at Baylor University, she still made it a priority to show up and cheer on our students. Crystal truly embodies the excellence we strive for as a campus through her leadership and support. — Nominated by Tamia Brice

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ANZELMA ROUSEY Administrator Cypress Park High School, TX Mrs. Rousey goes above and beyond in supporting our debate team. Despite our many field trips and spontaneous need for buses, Mrs. Rousey completes the debate team’s request with no complaints and a constant smile. Without Mrs. Rousey, our debate team family would not be complete, and we are thankful to have her. — Nominated by Donte Chevannes

JETHRO (JETT) SMITH Coach Highland High School, ID Jett has gone out of his way to make debate accessible to all schools and students. Jett has created a YouTube channel specifically designed to help students and coaches in debate. It includes in-depth and accessible topic lectures, introductory videos, and other lessons designed to increase the rigor of debate in our area. New and inexperienced coaches in our area are able to use these videos to teach their students and build their programs, which has been a game changer for our rural area. — Nominated by Dana Facer

MICHELLE STUART Parent Clear Brook High School, TX Michelle goes above and beyond to contribute to debate. Since her son first started as a novice, she volunteered as much as possible. In the two years since, her dedication has only improved. She is constantly at tournaments filling the judge quota and bringing snacks for the entire team. (Her chocolate covered clementine slices are delicious!) Mrs. Stuart takes the stereotype of the soccer (debate) mom and extends it in every direction to create the most positive environment for not only our team members but other competitors. — Nominated by Gabriel Torres

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Michele is one of our night custodians who loves speech and debate! She always works both days of our home tournament, stays later than her scheduled time to help us, and genuinely cares about how we do. I can honestly say that one of the most overlooked reasons for our successful hosting of tournaments is due entirely to Michele. She likes to help the students, both ours and from other schools, and is always positive, even when I need a room I told her we were done using. — Nominated by Sam Overton

With little to no experience in the field, Ms. West was appointed to our assistant debate coach at the start of the summer. In the span of three months, she engrossed herself in the sport, began to understand every event, and worked directly with our team to help us achieve our best. In her one month of direct coaching, she has empowered all the novices on our team in a way that some coaches never could. Our team had a bleak future since our last coach left, but Ms. West’s passion is a beacon for our team. — Nominated by Aaron Piehl

W E A R E S P E E C H & D E B AT E

Vicki Joss serves as Publication Manager at the NSDA.

ROSTRUM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

CELEBRATING

EDUCATORS

CELEBRATING

EDUCATORS INSPIRING

STUDENTS STUDENTS INSPIRING

TRANSFORMING

TOMORROW TOMORROW

M AARRCCHH 11, , 22002244 M N ON NA ALL N AT AT II O

SPEECH

AND AND

DEBATE

EDUCATION DAY EDUCATION DAY

#NSDEday #NSDEday www.speechanddebate.org/national-speech-debate-education-day www.speechanddebate.org/national-speech-debate-education-day

NAT I O NAL

SPEECH AND DEBATE

EDUCATION DAY • MARCH 1, 2024

2024 RESOURCES

CELEBRATING EDUCATORS. INSPIRING STUDENTS. TRANSFORMING TOMORROW.

NAT ION AL

SPEECH AND DEBATE

EDUCATION DAY • MARCH 1, 2024

2024 RESOURCES

CELEBRATING EDUCATORS. INSPIRING STUDENTS. TRANSFORMING TOMORROW.

SOCIAL MEDIA KIT Social media can be a great way to stay in touch with your speech and debate team members, their parents/ guardians, and the surrounding community! From organizing logistic details for tournaments to celebrating student success, read on for just a few of the ways you can use social media to promote your speech and debate team. Make sure everything setinup so you Speech and Debate Education Social media canto beget a great way to stay touch with can yourcelebrate speech andNational debate team members, their parents/ guardians, and the surrounding community! From organizing logistic details for tournaments to celebrating Day online with us on March 1!

SOCIAL MEDIA KIT

student success, read on for just a few of the ways you can use social media to promote your speech and debate team. Make sure to get everything set up so you can celebrate National Speech and Debate Education Day online with us on March 1!

CHOOSING YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA NETWORK

Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram offer the best opportunities for speech and debate teams to share CHOOSING YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA NETWORK information, depending on what information you’re focused on sharing. For example, if you mostly want to celebrate students share tournaments, be a good Facebook,and Twitter, andachievements Instagram offerfrom the best opportunitiesInstagram for speechmay and debate teamschoice to sharefor showing information, depending on what information you’re focused on sharing. For example, or if you mostly team want to photos. However, if you’re hoping to communicate information about tournaments organize events, you celebrate students and share achievements from tournaments, Instagram may be a good choice for showing would likely be better off choosing a text-based social network like Facebook or Twitter. photos. However, if you’re hoping to communicate information about tournaments or organize team events, you

Most importantly, askbe the people you’re hoping to communicate If your or goal is to share information with would likely better off choosing a text-based social networkwith! like Facebook Twitter. students, ask them what method they would prefer.to However, if your goal is togoal show to the school Most importantly, ask the people you’re hoping communicate with! If your is tosuccess share information with communitystudents, or yourask district, perhaps consider choosing the social network that your district is most active on. them what method they would prefer. However, if your goal is to show success to the school community or your district, perhaps consider choosing the social network that your district is most active on.

INCREASE YOUR FOLLOWERS

Once you’ve chosen your social media network and set up your account, the next step is to make sure the people Once you’ve chosen your social media network and set up your account, the next step is to make sure the people you care about are following! Follow other pages for activities in your school if applicable. Ex, football team, drama you care about are following! Follow other pages for activities in your school if applicable. Ex, football team, drama program, booster etc.club. Consider askingasking students to follow your class,sending sending an email program,club. booster etc. Consider students to follow youraccount account during during class, an email to to parents with information on the new or even posting something school’sannouncements. announcements. parents with information on theaccount, new account, or even posting somethingin in your your school’s

TIPS ON POSTING TIPS ON POSTING Social media works bestitwhen it reaches the intended audience andisisshared! shared! Tag people like like the team Social media works best when reaches the intended audience and Tagrelevant relevant people the team of the school you’re competing at, the students who you’re celebrating (if they’re comfortable with it), or even of the school you’re competing at, the students who you’re celebrating (if they’re comfortable with it), or even your school principal. And of course, don’t forget to tag @speechanddebate! your school principal. And of course, don’t forget to tag @speechanddebate! Hashtags can also be a great way to increase your audience and gain attention. We recommend using

Hashtags can also be a great way totoincrease audience and gain attention. We recommend using #WeAreSpeechAndDebate celebrateyour with us! #WeAreSpeechAndDebate to celebrate with us!

ON NSDE DAY, JOIN OUR SOCIAL MEDIA MOVEMENT!

We areDAY, encouraging all teams to shareSOCIAL student, coach,MEDIA educator, andMOVEMENT! alumni stories of why speech and debate is ON NSDE JOIN OUR

important to them, using the hashtag #NSDEday. Additionally, download free graphics to share celebrating National

We are encouraging all teams to share student, coach, educator, and alumni stories of why speech and debate is Speech and Debate Education Day on March 1! Visit www.speechanddebate.org/national-speech-debate-education-day important to them, using the hashtag #NSDEday. Additionally, download free graphics to share celebrating National Hashtags can also be a great way to increase your audience and gain attention. We recommend using #NSDEday Speech andtoDebate Education Day on March 1! Visit www.speechanddebate.org/national-speech-debate-education-day. celebrate with us! Hashtags can also be a great way to increase your audience and gain attention. We recommend using #NSDEday to celebrate with us! free resources available at www.speechanddebate.org /national-speech-debate-education-day Additional Additional free resources available at www.speechanddebate.org /national-speech-debate-education-day NATIONAL SPEECH AND DEBATE EDUCATION DAY | www.speechanddebate.org/national-speech-debate-education-day

#NSDEday

#NSDEday NATIONAL SPEECH AND DEBATE EDUCATION DAY | www.speechanddebate.org/national-speech-debate-education-day ROSTRUM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

COMMUNITY

When you woke up this morning, did you know you would have a chance to change your life forever?” Executive Director J. Scott Wunn Reflects on 20 Years of NSDA Leadership

n the early 2000s, then-coach Scott Wunn used to walk How would you into ninth grade English classes at the beginning of the describe the NFL in 2003? school year to ask the titular question. Given the team recruitment numbers he achieved at both Ankeny and Iowa Tradition-driven. City West high schools in Iowa, his somewhat dramatic approach to motivation was effective. How would you In 2003, a morning came when Scott had the same describe the NSDA in opportunity to make a choice that would have a dramatic 2023? impact on his life. The National Forensic League (NFL, now Mission-driven. NSDA) was hiring a new Executive Secretary (now Executive In 2003, the NFL Director), and Scott was a candidate for the role. Scott didn’t organization was smaller know much about the national level of the NFL, but he knew in terms of intended that as a member himself, he wanted to know the NFL more. reach. Tradition was a He had a hunch that there were other coaches like him, key factor in loyalty and hungry to know more about and be a greater part of the membership. As the organization, and he felt that as a people-person, he could fill NSDA approaches the that role. 100 year mark, tradition Nervous about the prospect of leaving coaching and still matters, but so does teaching, he ultimately chose to make the leap. He had a losing some of the rigidity partner in wife Megan Wunn who always encouraged him to stretch himself and try things out. He didn’t know exactly what the job entailed, but he felt that his confidence, coupled with his willingness to put in the work, would lead to success. Although as a teacher, running a national organization had never been on his radar, when Scott got encouragement from key speech and debate people in his life, he went for it. Fast forward 20 years later to J. Scott Wunn, Executive Director of the National Speech & Debate Association, which is about to celebrate its 100th Scott with wife anniversary in 2025. Scott shares a few reflections Megan and son Jaden in 2013. on his two decades at the helm.

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associated with it to let youth voices guide the path forward.

What are the biggest changes you’ve witnessed in the activity? First, a willingness for it to challenge itself. Twenty years ago, not many things were challenged. Questioning rules, the “why” or “how” behind decisions and actions, evaluating and debating the value of certain events or practices—these activities have emerged over time. People are willing to make it better from the grassroots rather than from the top down. And, I’m no longer mistaken for a mortician as head of the National Forensic League!

Scott was recognized as a national champion coach (second from left, back row) on the cover of Rostrum magazine in December 2002, shortly before accepting his new role at the national office. Scott addresses the attendees of the 2023 National Speech & Debate Tournament.

What are the three biggest changes you’ve witnessed in the organization? • A transformation in loving and respecting the DNA of the organization while understanding that you must evolve in order to maximize the potential of the activity for all communities. • The welcoming of student voice and the role it plays in what our activity means to the world. • Changes to our staffing and governing structures that facilitate a different approach to running a nonprofit organization. Although I think we have a long way to go, we’ve moved toward strategic planning, finding the best way to utilize community expertise in Board subcommittees, wording committees, district leadership, and much more.

What’s your hope for the next 10 years of the NSDA? As a collective set of communities, find the pathway where the NSDA can be the most beneficial and helpful to the promotion and advancement of the activity. We want to reach more audiences than we ever thought imaginable. Critical mass participation takes place because speech and debate is so respected within the education community, to the point where involvement and community support are expected. We don’t wake up every morning wondering IF there will be speech and debate, we wake up excited because we get to introduce it to more schools and more students.

Linda Wunn

To expand on the theme for this issue of Rostrum, is there an unsung hero in your story you’d like to celebrate? Any former coach you interview would hear this question and the numerous students who impacted them will start scrolling through their mind. Someone in my role also can’t help but think of the 20 National Tournaments I’ve run, which is one of the coolest parts of my job. I’ve worked with dozens of tournament hosts and volunteers who have made that event possible. But the true unsung hero in my story is my mom, Linda. I credit my mom for getting me into

education. As a registered nurse for 40 years, she specialized in elderly care. My dad drove the elderly transport bus for 15 years, and my sister became a social worker in the same field. When I was pondering not going to law school and becoming a teacher instead, my mom looked me in the eye and said she’d always thought I’d be a teacher. My mom’s choice to wake up every day and take care of people influenced all of our family and taught me so much about respecting the entire lifespan of a person. Even though I’m not technically a coach anymore, coaching “moments” are still some of the best elements of my day-to-day. I couldn’t do a job where coaching isn’t involved. I believe coaching is one of the greatest endeavors anyone can undertake, no matter the arena.

compiled by Amy Seidelman, Assistant Executive Director at the NSDA (pictured with her former high school coach, Scott Wunn)

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COACH PROFILE

Yet, Cameron strategically made sure that the large amount of pizza he brought with him was the first thing my students saw when they entered the classroom. By the time my students had finished eating, and after learning that debate and moot court are very similar, Cameron’s presentation hooked the students into wanting to join the league.

Did you compete as a student? If so, in what events?

SAID DIBINGA - CHOTA A son of African immigrants, Said expresses deep gratitude to his role models, mentors, and supporters—and shares some of his insights after a decade of coaching.

“Debate isn’t just an activity—it’s a way of life.” You currently serve as the NSDA advisor at New Designs Charter School-University Park in California. How did you first get into coaching speech and debate? Back in 2013, Cameron Ward— at that time, the executive director for our home

league, the Los Angeles Metropolitan Urban Debate League (LAMDL)—came to speak to our students about joining the debate league. I was the Law and Diplomacy Career Pathway Coordinator, so between moot court and mock trial competition, I didn’t see how I would have the time to coach.

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As a child of African immigrants from DRCongo who were college professors, I was exposed to debating before I was born! I competed in Policy Debate in middle school at Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School—it was fun as long as I kept my grades up. I later attended an accelerated high school, Shaw Preparatory School. Four years were condensed into one, so they didn’t have a debate program; I wanted to start one, yet my course load was pretty heavy. I did dabble in British Parli during the summer while at University.

Tell us about your team and what makes it unique. Our debate squad and LAMDL are shining examples of diversity, with a majority of young women from lowincome backgrounds, many being immigrants or their descendants. Our team’s linguistic richness spans

beyond English and Spanish, encompassing languages like Arabic.

Would you share something awesome or challenging about serving as a coach? Watching our students craft arguments is like seeing them weave essential life skills into their very essence. Their passion for public speaking and critical thinking is electric. Yet, beneath their poised exteriors, these are kids from varied backgrounds, finding camaraderie in our tight-knit debate family. There are inside jokes, shared dreams, and first-time experiences—like flying or traveling without family. Their victories, big or small, become lifelong memories. These young debaters not only champion causes close to their hearts but also bridge divides in a world often stuck in echo chambers. Their ability to understand diverse perspectives is inspiring. It’s delightful to hear fellow teachers remark on the confidence, expansive discussions, and reading prowess our debaters bring to the classroom, underscoring how debate enriches their academic journey. Coaching, though deeply rewarding, is time intensive. Tournaments stretch across days, demanding immense mental stamina from both students and coaches. While I don’t have an assistant and juggle other commitments,

IN THEIR WORDS I, like many coaches, am driven by the profound impact debate has on our students, both now and in their futures.

What general advice would you offer a new coach in this activity? What do you wish you would have known starting out? Prioritize self-care and ensure your passion for coaching stems from a genuine place, not outside pressures. As a coach, your role is to empower students to find their voice. Garner support from parents by involving them, perhaps by inviting them to local tournaments. This is especially vital for communities unfamiliar with debate. Consider hosting demonstration debates to familiarize them with the

process and to ease any concerns about late-night returns from competitions. Leverage experienced coaches in your league as valuable resources. The size of your squad matters less than the dedication of its members. It’s natural for students to join because of friends, but remember some may leave if their friend does. Recognize that, like in classrooms, as a coach, you’ll navigate students’ emotional challenges related to the competitive landscape. Aim to understand each debater’s motivation, whether it’s overcoming shyness or honing public speaking. Encourage your squad to watch the documentary Resolved for a comprehensive insight into the debate world, and Walkout to understand the potency of their voice in creating change.

Several of Said’s students share their thoughts about joining their growing debate team. For me, debate is where passion meets purpose.” — Nicolette Crespin (’24)

Debate? It’s the heartbeat of my high school journey!” — Carlos de Leon (’24) Debate isn’t just a club; it’s my voice amplified!” — Jasmeet Ghumman (’24)

Lastly, it’s essential to understand that not every student will recognize the time and effort you invest in them. Some might silently drift away, a reflection of today’s communication challenges. Always remember your coaching goal: to create opportunities. Some students will cherish this, while others may overlook it, but all will have had the chance to thrive.

This issue of Rostrum centers on gratitude. How do you and your team show gratitude to your supporters? One of the ways we show gratitude is by giving debate squad hoodies to staff on campus who help us! They are made of high-quality material and feature our squad logo. We also add their name

Students from New Designs Charter School-University Park in California pose with their awards following a recent tournament.

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and “number” on the back. For parents and guardians of debaters, we hold our Christmas party where we give thank you cards to our family of supporters. The two years of lockdowns prevented us from hosting the events, but thankfully, we’re bringing back our Christmas party this year.

What is the highlight of your coaching career thus far? Competing at Harvard in 2022 was a poignant moment in my coaching journey. Both my parents were Harvard graduates, and my father worked tirelessly to increase Black student enrollment there. As a child, I frequently roamed its campus, even believing everyone attended Harvard. So, when I took my student debaters for a campus tour during the competition, their awe-filled expressions transported me back. Many confided that being at Harvard was a dream they never thought they’d realize. Sharing this experience with my sister, she remarked on the role reversal: from a curious child shadowing his father to a mentor guiding his students. The weight of her words and the realization that we were there on my late father’s birthday, who passed in 2020, was deeply moving. It’s a cherished memory that I and my students hold close, made possible with our school’s unwavering support.

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Tell us about the “unsung heroes” of speech and debate who have made a difference in your area. Deep gratitude goes to our stalwarts: Dr. Adutwum, our school’s founder; Dr. Paul Okaiteye, our supportive CEO; Dr. Hazel Rojas, our Director of Educational Services; and VicePrincipal Mrs. Kim Smith, who has passionately chaperoned our team to prestigious invitationals—her level of support is top-tier. Acknowledgments are due to Middle School Dean Mr. Porter; Ms. Nyako, whose daughter Khadijah is a squad member; Ms. Macias is the salt of the Earth; along with our campus security team, led by Mr. Martinez, ensuring our Saturday meets run smoothly; and Executive Assistant Ms. Lizzi Rayos—not enough words illustrate how much she has supported our team. Alumni Tania Lopez and Nahomy Rivas, both former high school debaters and stars in the law career pathways, have been invaluable. Tania attends Cal State Fullerton, and Nahomy attends Santa Monica College. Both have won top honors in moot

Is there anything else you would like to add? Thank you very kindly for this opportunity. The day of Cameron Ward introducing our school to debate led many of our students on their path to higher education with the tools to achieve their

court competitions, and both regularly mentor our team, conducting weekend labs and offering insights during tournaments. Ms. Vania Marfo is our behind-the-scenes hero, coordinating transportation for our numerous tournaments and ensuring everything runs smoothly, even during her off-hours. A shoutout goes to Ms. Gonzalez, our AP Spanish teacher, who proudly notes in professional development meetings that her topscoring students often come from our debate squad. High School Dean Mr. Luis Esparza has supported debate since he was a teacher. Often, many of our student debaters compete on the soccer teams he coaches, and he still collaborates with me in checking both the mental health and academics of our student debaters. Thank you to Principal Dr. Gyesaw for signing the approval documents related to our debate squad. And I have to give glory to Mr. Herring, a long-time confidante who constantly speaks on behalf of our squad behind the scenes.

Have you had any mentors or role models who have served as a catalyst for your work?

ambitions. Many graduates revisit or volunteer with the squad, and often, younger siblings join us. To fellow coaches: center your efforts on the students and ensure you lay a strong foundation for future leaders. Even if

you feel unappreciated as educators, there’s always a student touched by your words or guidance. That once-shy kid will shine during future presentations, reminding us that debate isn’t just an activity—it’s a way of life.

My mentors and role models have always been my parents. My dad, Reverend Dr. Dibinga wa Said - Chota, and my mom, Dr. Ngolela wa Kabongo, both were educators and human rights activists. Both lived under Belgian colonialism and a decade-long brutal dictatorship of Mobutu Sese Seko. Yet, no matter the conditions, they excelled in education and were always advocates for human rights. They held nine college degrees between them, spoke four languages, both were teachers and entrepreneurs, and they were humble about accomplishments. They’ve affected every aspect of my life, and I’ve treasured their conversations with me since before I could speak English. Coaching debate is an extension of that, and prayerfully, I’ve passed on some of my parents’ wisdom to my student debaters.

compiled by Vicki Joss, Publications Manager at the NSDA

National Speech & Debate Association

INSPIRE STUDENTS WITH MEANINGFUL DEBATES THROUGH BIG QUESTIONS!

2023 FINALIST LILY WILLIAMS and 2023 CHAMPION ISOBEL MAKSOUDIAN

WHAT IS BIG QUESTIONS? Big Questions is a debate format designed to open students’ minds and encourage them to engage in life

RESO URCES

f Big Questions Final Rounds Archive

discussion that may not align with their previously held beliefs. Whether or not students change their opinion, the rich experience of this debate event will advance their knowledge, comfort, and interest

f Big Questions

Judge Training

in learning more about the subject matter based on the intersection of science and philosophy.

Students greatly improved in their debate skills as the Big Questions tournament progressed. The students really had fun with it and got into the debate. It was nice for me as their teacher and coach to see improvement in their skills.

f BIG QUESTIONS LESSON PLAN –

Constructing an Argument

f BIG QUESTIONS

GET STARTED AT: speechanddebate.org/big-questions

LESSON PLAN – Refuting an Argument

DISTRICT IN DETAIL

WITH APPRECIATION Several district chairs share their tips for recruiting volunteers and working with alumni while showing gratitude along the way.

community members. Then, of course, there is always the fun of cold calls and shameless begging.

compiled by Lauren McCool Volunteers are so important! What does your team/district do to recruit volunteers?

Beth Young PITTSBURGH (PA) DISTRICT Most of our schools rely heavily on their parent groups for support—judges, drivers, chaperones, and other tournament support people. Schools tend to handle those sorts of volunteer requests on their own, but our district does seek out other personnel who can help us. We maintain two Facebook pages, and a group of alumni in our area maintain a separate page for all western Pennsylvania alums. individuals who have worked with speech and debate programs in years past have asked to remain on our mailing list, so they get

weekly updates of what is happening in the district and will sometimes volunteer for upcoming events.

Micah Everson

Shannon O’Donnell

We rely a lot on parents and alumni as judges, although we also reach out to local organizations that focus on volunteering and community service, such as college Greek organizations, Toastmasters, and law firms. Most of the recruitment burden is on individual schools and tournament hosts, although especially when it comes to district qualifiers, we all work together as a committee with the host school to really try to make sure we have adequate judging pools.

MONTANA WEST DISTRICT We begin with team parents and alumni. Many teams send email newsletters whenever volunteers or other types of team-related assistance are needed. For most of our basic needs, this works wonderfully. For tournaments, we turn next to local teachers. My school district is incredibly supportive and provides teachers with an hour of pupil-instruction-related (PIR) time for each round judged—it’s amazing how quickly that Friday round fills up! Most schools in our district also announce upcoming tournament judge needs in newspapers and on the radio to alert interested

Lauren McCool serves as Leadership and Education Specialist at the NSDA.

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MAGNOLIA (MS) DISTRICT

and are really grateful for our incredible volunteer community. At the district level, we send a judge “all call” email to anyone who has previously judged, and we find that many people return to judge year after year (even when the person who brought them into our community has graduated!). Most of these judges were originally recruited by individual schools/teams, and then we add them to our district pool. Our district has the unique challenge of not having the support of nearby collegiate programs, and we don’t have the financial resources to pay judges. We are fortunate to have a community of volunteer judges who have become strong advocates for the activity and have learned a lot about what to look for in each event and give fantastic feedback to our competitors.

How does your team/district work with recent alumni who want to give back once they’ve graduated?

Jason Habig Molly Beck EASTERN MISSOURI DISTRICT We have invested in volunteer recruitment and retention over time

NORTH COAST (OH) DISTRICT We give out the NSDA District Alumni Achievement Award and try to stay active on social media so we can continue to update our

alums on what our current students are accomplishing and celebrate their achievements.

Shannon: At the start of each season, debate graduates from my team have a tradition of mentoring the new debate recruits. They do this from wherever they are via Zoom, email, phone conversations, Google Docs, etc. They also provide feedback on debate cases prior to the state tournament. In December, our practice rooms are full of alumni who come to watch performances and offer feedback while on winter break. It’s a favorite time of the season for both kids and coaches. Teams from around our district have similar practices, and we have all utilized alumni as volunteer coaches, paid coaches, and as judges at Nationals.

Micah: Most coaches in our district do a pretty good job of maintaining relationships with alumni and getting them involved, both in judging at tournaments and even coming back and helping coach when possible. We even have some who will drive back home from out of state for our qualifiers and state championship tournaments! Tabroom. com’s system for judges has made keeping track of alumni a little easier, since we can go back and review tournaments from previous years and easily pull contact information to recruit for the current year.

How do you train or prepare those who volunteer their time to support your team/district?

Jason: Our first tournament of the year is a novice tournament. There, we train as many new volunteers as schools would like to bring. Once our weekly local tournaments begin, we allow new judges to shadow an experienced judge for at least the first round so they can ask questions and get some feedback before they fly solo.

Beth: We offer training sessions for new judges in the fall. In addition, we publish two items that many new volunteers find helpful—the massive judges manual that tells judges everything from how to dress, what to expect, the different event categories, and anything else they might come across at a tournament. We also have a PowerPoint for coaches and judges with many (hopefully all) of the basics included— league information, acronyms, contact people, etc. Yet another preparation technique is to send out a video to all judges before each tournament, reminding them about Tabroom.com, helping them register for it, and telling them what to expect. And, of course, we have a judges’ meeting before each tournament.

Micah: To help with consistency, our District Committee members and state-level leadership have created slides and handouts over the years that most of

our district coaches use. We also start most tournaments with a brief training talk to judges, continuing a tradition started by NSDA Hall of Fame members Dr. Randy Patterson and Mrs. Anita Boyd, who were our judge assignment aficionados for many years.

Molly: Many tournament hosts have started running a text help line during tournaments so judges can text and let us know if they need questions, are missing a competitor, or need something from the tournament hosts. Many judges have told us this has been really helpful and allows them to feel more connected to the tournament staff while they are judging.

How does your team/district show gratitude to your supporters?

Jason: We feed our volunteer judges very well at tournaments. We also make our tournaments run efficiently so we are respectful of the time that they are giving up and using it wisely. A few years ago, our district created the Vicki Balzer Volunteer of the Year award to recognize our most outstanding volunteers in honor of a longtime coach who brought so many dedicated volunteers to our district over her 40+ year career.

Beth: At our school, we recognize volunteers at our final awards night. Our school, and most others,

offer small stipends to judges. At NSDA districts last year, I felt so gratified that we had so many people volunteering that we decided to run a judge raffle. We gave each judge a set of tickets throughout the day, and they were allowed to put them into “take a chance” buckets for the items of their choice. Prizes included everything from an old “NFL Coach” mug (this was a huge hit!) to gift cards for local fast food places.

Shannon: We thank them, we thank them, we thank them! Throughout the district, judges and volunteers are truly spoiled inside tournament judges’ lounges—great food shows great appreciation! Following tournaments, host schools post notes of thanks in local newspapers and air thank you messages on the radio. Both high schools in my own community select a “Friend of Forensics” winner each year and then honor that person/group/organization with a plaque at our endof-season team banquet.

Micah: Our teams send profuse verbal thanks from exhausted tab staff. Individual coaches and tournament hosts also will write thank you notes, and again, we utilize the judge contacts on Tabroom.com to make sure that we’re communicating with judges effectively before, during, and after tournaments. At a couple of tournaments, hosts have also handed out a special trophy or award for “Most Rounds Judged” or “Best Ballot.”

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Molly: Every

Celebrate a stellar speech and debate supporter! Tell us about someone who has made a difference in your district.

tournament offers a full hospitality room for all judges. We provide plenty of homemade food (soup, chili, lasagna, casseroles, etc.) along with items like sub sandwiches and pizzas— and lots of sides! Of course, we also make sure to provide plenty of coffee and sweet treats. While we wish we could do more to show our gratitude, our financial resources allow us to offer a hospitality room as our token of gratitude. Additionally, we send thank you emails to judges after tournaments and ask for feedback from them so we can continue to make the tournament experience better for them. Our district also makes sure to give out district awards to recognize folks who support us and our activity. We have found that our community members are really grateful for the recognition, and our students and coaches embrace the opportunity to celebrate the people who support what we do!

Alejandro Chock is a graduate of Berea-Midpark High School, where he was an accomplished congressional debater. Now a professional transportation engineer, Alejandro comes back to judge almost weekly and often is willing to serve as an elimination round judge at our district national qualifying and OSDA state tournaments. He exemplifies giving back to the activity here on the North Coast. — Jason Habig Sharon Givens Volpe competed for the Mercer Area program back in the 1980s. When she left that program, she eventually went to coach at the Upper St. Clair program, helped start and maintain the Perry Traditional Academy program, and then went on to build the North Allegheny program to an amazing powerhouse. While doing all of this, she also actively sought out new coaches, new schools, and new programs— getting them ready to compete for the upcoming season or just introducing them to the activity. Just this past spring, Sharon was recruited by our state executive committee to serve

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FUN FACT

as the executive director of our state league, PHSSL. While she is working hard to serve the league, she is also back to her old tricks— seeking out new coaches, new schools, and new programs. — Beth Young

of the students, and recruits judges from his colleagues and the Millsaps College Mock Trial team. — Micah Everson

We want our activity to be a welcoming place where people from all walks of life can be accepted and heard. One of the supporters that helps us accomplish this is the Disability Employment and Transition Services division for the state of Montana. Through their programs, this division contributes money and support to help students with disabilities participate more fully in speech and debate. Administrator Chanda Hermanson, Bureau Chief Tammy Hogan, and their team have done so much to help meet our goals of making speech and debate in our district more accessible. — Shannon O’Donnell Dr. Harvey Fiser, who is a dean and professor at Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi, has been an incredible supporter for years, graciously hosting our MHSAA Congressional Debate tournament on campus every spring. He makes sure that we have excellent facilities, feeds all

I would like to celebrate Rick Dent and Bill Siefert, the custodians at Ladue Horton Watkins High School who most often provide support during our tournaments. These two gentlemen go above and beyond to provide an incredible tournament experience for our guests and work overtime to ensure our students get to host a great tournament. From making sure the restrooms are stocked and clean and trash cans are empty to cleaning up spills and removing scuff marks from shoes, they wander the building for 12+ hours to ensure everyone has a safe and clean environment in which to compete—and then stay even later to make sure we are ready for class as usual on Monday morning. On top of that, they constantly ask students how they’re doing in the competition, ask what else they can do to make our job easier, and find time to make us all laugh. They’re two of the kindest, most helpful, and most dedicated humans you will ever meet, and I cannot begin to thank them enough for what they do. — Molly Beck

Bill Siefert, custodian at Ladue Horton Watkins High School in Missouri, “attended Ladue and competed for the debate team here and NEVER TOLD ME! He is the most humble person in the world, so it’s not surprising!” — Molly Beck

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Major in Communication You communicate ideas that people NEED to hear. Let Truman State University be your next stage.

BA in Communication Winning is nice, but being a great speaker is not just about that. Your passion and advocacy are what gives voice to the issues you care about. At Truman, we know your advocacy does not end at graduation. It is ongoing. It requires practice. It is shaped by your experiences and what you learn. We are invested in giving you the tools you need to communicate your ideas to diverse audiences and keep up with a fastchanging world. Truman’s BA in Communication prepares students for a wide variety of careers, graduate school, or law school. Five emphasis areas within the major give you choice while covering the broad scope of the discipline: Relational Communication — Understand how people communicate interpersonally, within families, & in group settings. Corporate Communication — Study how companies effectively manage their internal structures and processes. Strategic Communication — Learn how organizations communicate to the public, other important external stakeholders, and create their brand. Argument & Speech — Learn the ins-and-outs of argumentation and performance to become an effective speech coach or theatre director. Activism & Advocacy — Approach your education with the goal of taking your advocacy beyond the classroom.

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Our COMM faculty use experiential and cooperative approaches to learning in the classroom. We work 1-on-1 with you to help you create and execute a curricular plan that fits YOUR specific needs and goals. As a liberal arts institution, we have found that Truman students learn best by extending their academics to participation in other transformational experiences around campus, such as Forensics (Speech & Debate), the Truman Media Network (newspaper/TV/radio), Student Government, Mock Trial, Greek life, athletics, and many more! When it comes time for college, choose Truman.

MIDDLE SCHOOL FOCUS

OBSERVATIONS FROM A VETERAN COACH by George Tennison

he teacher called my name, and I awkwardly stepped to the front of the room to present my speech. My mother sat in the front row, anxiously awaiting my first word. It never came. Three minutes of silence. That was the pinnacle of my middle school public speaking experience.

When you’re extremely shy, with a speech impairment, you avoid public speaking at all costs—a strategy I mastered in middle school, high school, and college. For the most part, it wasn’t hard to do... until I decided to become a teacher. I became a speaker out of necessity: It’s hard to teach if you’re afraid to speak.

Once I started teaching at E. A. Olle Middle School in 1993, I wanted my students to have a better experience—a more comfortable experience—with public speaking. In my language arts classroom, speaking and listening received the same emphasis as reading and writing. My principal saw this, and in August of 2000, she asked me to start a speech team. I knew nothing about competitive speech and debate, but I said, “Yes.” Three months later, we attended our first tournament. Six students entered Oratory, and one student entered Poetry. After the tournament was over, I thought my work was done. It never occurred to me that there was more than one tournament each year. We attended six tournaments that year, and through wordof-mouth, my initial team of seven students grew to 32.

Life can be unpredictable. Twenty-three years later, I no longer teach language arts. I’m certified to teach speech, and I teach six speech classes every day. I have had opportunities to move to high school, but I have chosen to stay in middle school because I truly enjoy teaching middle school kids. It helps to teach in a school and school district (Alief ISD) where speech and debate are valued and supported. Naturally, my experiences have shaped the way I coach. With that in mind, here are some of my observations about middle school speech and debate.

Middle school is the perfect time to help students find their voice. Middle school students are explorers, trying to discover who they are. At the same time, they are dealing with incredible pressure, both social and academic. In an educational system that is becoming more standardized, speech classrooms may be the only place where students can

choose what they want to read and write. More importantly, changing graduation requirements make it difficult for students to take one year of speech in high school, let alone four. While we should fight for speech at the high school level, we must realize that middle school may be the only time when some students can take a speech class.

Every student’s speech journey is different. I begin each year by introducing the idea of a speech journey. I share my speech journey, and I share the speech journeys of former students. This mitigates the reality that some students initially will be more successful than other students, and it reminds students that every student develops their speaking skills at a different rate. Everyone’s journey is different, with ups and downs, and progress isn’t always linear.

The journey is more important than the destination.

Our team celebrates at the 2023 Middle School National Tournament in Phoenix, Arizona. The experience of traveling to Nationals is invaluable to our students. Three of these students had never been on an airplane before.

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Many of my students are used to being the stars of their classrooms. Speech tournaments may be the first time when they finish second (or worse). As coaches, we must model that hard work and learning are more important than the trophies. After a

tournament, I try to treat every student the same, whether they won multiple trophies or didn’t get past the first round. As I check in with every kid, I ask them, “Did you have fun, and what did you learn today?”

Your students’ greatest victories will occur long after they leave middle school. Some students’ journeys take a little longer. We are laying the foundation for future success. As I work with middle school students, I find it helpful to envision the adults they will become.

No matter why a student joins the speech and debate team, we must help them belong. Students will join the speech and debate team for many reasons. Occasionally, students will show up in your classroom because they love speech and debate, but more often, they will show up for some other reason. No matter why they join, it’s our job to help them find their voice and discover their niche. Don’t judge their reason for joining; embrace it. Bianca taught me this lesson. In 2003, she joined the speech and debate team to compete in lip sync—a common middle school event in the Houston area. When she wasn’t competing in lip sync, she began to watch other events. At the 2004 Middle School Nationals, she finished second in Poetry.

Lip sync may seem out of place at a speech tournament, but it teaches students to communicate a story through bodily movement and facial expressions while making them more aware of their diction. More importantly, lip sync brings students to speech and debate who might never find it otherwise.

Overcoming shyness is not a one-time accomplishment. It’s a constant struggle. Even though I teach public speaking, I am still shy. Most people would never know that because I seem confident, but every time I speak in public, I must overcome my innate shyness. This is something that I share with my students, especially those who are shy themselves. We must find a place on our teams for shy students, and we should be patient with them as they develop strategies for overcoming shyness.

Middle school students are developmentally different from high school students. They are not slightly younger high school students. In the speech and debate world, an 11-year-old sixth grader is expected to follow the same norms and rules as an 18-year-old twelfth grader. Coaches must consider what is “developmentally appropriate” for each child as

I help Haily, Zahra, and Lyla find topics for Original Spoken Word Poetry. I taught Haily’s two aunts, Zahra’s three siblings, and Lyla’s mother. I’ve taught in the same school for 31 years, so family traditions are a constant on our team.

we help them navigate events and pieces. We ask sixth graders to debate the same topics as twelfth graders. While some topics will work for all grade levels, others may need to be modified, and some may need to be changed completely. Otherwise, students will turn away from debate because they perceive the topics to be too difficult or uninteresting. Ultimately, we must prioritize every child’s development over competitive success.

Jump in! If you only take students to speech competitions when they’re “ready,” many students will never attend a speech tournament. When my students and I attended our first speech tournament 23 years ago, they weren’t ready, and I was probably less ready than they were! At that first tournament, only one student advanced out of the first round, and no one advanced to the finals. For us to grow, we had to see and hear what “ready” looked like.

If we want this valuable activity to grow and prosper, we must make access easier for beginning students and new coaches. Speech and debate can be overwhelming: numerous events, each with different rules, and even more unwritten norms. Most campuses only have one speech coach, and speech may not be their only responsibility. Veteran coaches and competitors should reach out to the new faces they see at tournaments. When a rule or norm is broken, see it as a teachable moment, not a moment for judgment. I am only here because of the numerous coaches who mentored me.

Find balance. Burnout is real. For both students and coaches, physical and mental health are more important than any speech tournament.

George Tennison is a twodiamond coach from E. A. Olle Middle School in Texas.

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CHAMPIONS CORNER

INSIGHTS FROM

RISING STARS When did you start participating in speech and debate, and what got you “hooked” on it?

We invited several middle school champions (now eighth graders) to tell us what first drew them to the activity and what advice they would share with other students interested in joining their speech and debate team.

in Elementary PF. However, I did not get hooked on debate until seventh grade. Resolutions and arguments presented in Policy Debate made me get hooked on it as I had fun cutting cards, reading evidence, and ultimately presenting my case.

middle school Policy Debate! What do you like most about participating in debate? Sohum: In debate, I love participating in crossexamination as it’s very fun to nitpick at an opponent’s case. I also like brainstorming arguments to use in round.

Kobe: The way cases are Kobe Aoki: I started doing Policy Debate in my seventh grade year because my older brothers also did it. It created competition between my siblings and me, and I wanted to be better than them. Policy Debate got me hooked when I found out how creative you could get with some arguments and how diverse the range of arguments is.

Gabriella Otero: I started participating in speech and debate in September of 2022 when I was in seventh grade. It began in the Introduction to Speech and Debate class that my school offered, and I ended up really liking it. What hooked me on speech was probably the fact that it gave me a voice and allowed me to compete and act out pieces in ways I’d never done before; I loved expressing myself and my voice.

constructed is what makes me want to participate in debate. There are so many interesting cases you can find being run throughout the national debate circuit, and it really makes you think about the resolution and the broadness or narrowness of the topic based on what’s being run.

participating in speech and debate in fifth grade

Sohum and Kobe, congratulations on your NSDA championship in

Gabriella, congrats on your NSDA championship in middle school Original Spoken Word Poetry! Can you talk a little about your topic or theme and what inspired it?

my Original Spoken Word Poetry piece was feminism and how it defines females,

compiled by Amy Seidelman, Assistant Executive Director at the NSDA

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Do you have a favorite memory from your time in Phoenix/Mesa? Kobe and Sohum: Our

Gabriella: My topic for Sohum Krishna: I started

girls, and women, yet a man is the one who wrote that definition. I was inspired to write my piece from a conversation I had one day with my mom in the car about how I was dressed to go to the movie theater. I was dressed casually in a hoodie and sweatpants, and my mom said I didn’t look very feminine. That comment got me thinking. I’ve always loved poetry, but my love for it bloomed last year when I was given the opportunity to write that piece of poetry and bring it with me to Nationals.

favorite part of Arizona was when our head coach, Susan Raymond, arranged a team dinner at the end of each day. It was a time where we were able to sit around a table and talk about whatever we wanted, and we didn’t have to feel the pressure of having to debate the next day.

Gabriella, you also finaled in Poetry and Prose at the Middle School National Tournament. How did you feel after getting through all three final rounds last year? Gabriella: Finaling in three different events came as sort of a sensory shock to me in a way. I went to Arizona with my school and was just hoping to make it past the preliminary rounds in at least one event; I couldn’t hope for much, being that it was my first year doing speech. After

the first three days, I was pleasantly surprised when I got the opportunity to compete in the semifinals for Poetry and Prose. That night, when my coach told me I finalled in all three of my events, I was ecstatic. My voice had been heard, and it influenced those who had heard my pieces. Being able to tell three different stories, full of messages that meant something to me, to a room full of people who had their eyes and ears on me, was invigorating. The experience was one I’ll never forget.

UNSUNG Both Kobe and Sohum nominated their HERO Policy Debate team captain, Seiji Aoki, for helping them throughout the season. As Kobe explains, “Even if he was hard on us, it helped develop and hone our skills as debaters.” Sohum adds, “He is one of the main reasons that I enjoy debating.”

Tell us something fun or unique about your speech and debate team! Kobe and Sohum: Something unique about our speech and debate team is that our mentors are high schoolers! They help us out as they want to see us do well. They learned from the people in grades above them, and they continue on to teach us as well as they can.

Gabriella: Last year was the first time my school ever brought middle school kids to Nationals. I was part of the first ever middle school team representing my school, and I thought that was really cool and exciting.

2023 Middle School Champions

What would you say to a middle school student who was thinking about trying speech and debate, but is still unsure? Sohum: I would say that they should just do it. The amount of fun and learning that comes out of speech and debate will be worth it, no matter if you win or lose. You will be more confident in yourself, get better at public speaking, and most importantly, have fun.

Kobe: Speech and debate brings so many opportunities to learn about the world and about specific situations. It helps with so many different possibilities that can grow you as a person. It has helped me learn, create stronger teamwork skills, be creative with arguments, and much more. Consider giving it a shot for a little bit, and you can always reevaluate if it’s not the right fit for you.

Gabriella: You should at

Policy Debate

Original Spoken Word Poetry

Sohum Krishna and Kobe Aoki from

Gabriella Otero from American

West Extended Learning Program in Salt Lake City, Utah

Heritage Broward Middle School in Plantation, Florida

least try, because at the beginning, it was my parents forcing me into speech and debate, but I ended up finding a community full of people who inspire me and the next generation. I found a family of people who are the innovators of the future, ready to change the world one day.

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COMMUNITY

Practice and Competition Tips from the USA Debate Team

USA Debate members attend a training event at Greenhill School in Texas.

by Sophia Li Regardless of your competitive level, debaters are always seeking to improve. Being a proficient debater requires extensive practice outside of competitive environments. The essence of effective debating lies in the art of constructing coherent arguments, marshaling compelling evidence, and articulating these points with clarity and confidence. Here are some practice tips that the USA Debate team implements.

Watching Practice Rounds

The internet is a vast, welldeveloped place with tons of resources to help you improve as a debater. One of our favorites is the expansive collection of recordings and

videos of rounds, not just from tournaments in the U.S., but from tournaments around the world. Watching these rounds can show you how some of the best debaters in the world approach a topic and what strategies they choose to take. As you watch the videos, flowing the rounds and even giving a speech that you think would fit in with the round can be a major contribution to your improvement!

Gaining Content Knowledge

It’s important to be informed, and content knowledge is critical to our understanding of debate topics. Stay up to date with world events by keeping up with the news. As you read opinion pieces, diversify your consumption with perspectives across

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the political spectrum. You can also listen to podcasts on your walks and drives. If you’re short on free time, don’t sweat it—email subscriptions to short updates from news outlets (WPR Daily Review, CNN’s 5 Things, Foreign Affairs This Week) can help keep you on top of everything! Beyond major current events, it’s essential to familiarize ourselves with the basic functions of the world around us. Delve into individual topic areas such as economics, government, or culture. Who knows—you might end up discovering a new passion!

Practice Debates

One of our favorite quotes is “practice, practice, practice!” While it may be easy to listen to podcasts or watch debates,

DEBATE

it is very, very difficult actually to apply what you’ve learned or observed without practice. Practice debates can be a great way to learn applications and strategies. When debating with a friend or in front of a coach, you can try new arguments and techniques and get concrete feedback on what you can do to improve, what worked and what didn’t, and what your strengths are. Practice debates can also help you find what kinds of topics you are weak in, enabling you to figure out where you should be doing research next.

Drills

To practice in between full rounds, utilize drills designed to focus on specific skills (e.g., case writing, rebuttal, or fluency). You might write a quick case outline given a motion, test how many rebuttals you can brainstorm in a minute for a given argument, or improve your speaking by delivering an original oration. If you’re struggling to identify the particular skills you should improve, seek individual feedback from judges and coaches.

Competition in debate is a whole different ballpark from practice where the skills nurtured during rigorous training are put to the ultimate test. While practice is indispensable for mastering the fundamentals of argumentation and research, the competitive environment injects a unique blend of pressure, intensity, and unpredictability. Here are some competition tips from the USA Debate team.

Show Up Prepared and Ready to Debate

Tournaments are stressful enough on their own without the additional frenzy of vanishing pencil cases and missing timers! Diligent preparation is key to competitive success. Prepare all of your tournament essentials—notetaking devices, printed cases, and more—with care. Double check that you have all of the fuel you’ll need: snacks, water, perhaps even an entertaining book! Review tournament information in advance to familiarize yourself with the debate policies and round schedule. Different tournaments may enforce different expectations for participants,

so make sure you’re fully aware of competitor guidelines. With all your debate must-haves neatly prepared and a clear mind, you’ll be ready to debate at your best.

Find Stress Relieving Tactics

Amid a pressure-filled environment of high stakes and fluctuating emotions, it’s important to have some ways of decompressing and winding down. Before rounds, we suggest listening to hype soundtracks, going on a walk for fresh air, playing a group game (our favorite lately is Ninja!), or performing a meditative breathing exercise. While waiting for a crucial elim round decision, destress by stretching your arms and legs, pacing backand-forth in the hallways, listening to relaxing music, or even chatting with the other team to get to know them better. To maintain a healthy relationship with debate, you should balance the stressful competitive environment with enjoyment. Keep in mind that these methods look different for everybody, so be sure to experiment with what process works best for you!

Collective Prowess on Display at the Greenhill Fall Classic

n September, the USA Debate team competed at the Greenhill Fall Classic, marking the first competitive event of the 2023-2024 season. This year’s event was particularly significant because it was the first time it had been held in person since the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted many aspects of our lives. The main goal of participating in the Greenhill Fall Classic was not solely about performing well, but also about allowing team members to get to know each other better and to become accustomed to working together effectively. At the tournament, the USA Debate team consisted of three groups, led by experienced senior captains Chelsea Hu, Alex Lee, and Sophia Li. USA Gold won the final round with a unanimous 5-0 decision. USA Blue reached the semifinals, and USA Red reached the quarterfinals. Furthermore, many of the team’s debaters received individual speaker awards. Valerie Gu (’25) was named the eighth speaker, Sophia Li earned the fifth speaker award, Chelsea Hu received the third speaker award, and Eshan Velidandla (’24) was recognized as the second speaker. Sherry Zhang (’25) was awarded first speaker. The team is excited about the prospect of competing in more tournaments, meeting new opponents, and engaging in challenging debates on a wide range of topics.

Sherry Zhang

Eshan Velidandla

Chelsea Hu

Sophia Li

Valerie Gu

Sophia Li (’24) is a member of the USA Debate team from Greenhill School, TX.

Learn more at www.speechanddebate.org/usa-debate ROSTRUM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

WORDS FROM THE HALL

2023 Hall of Fame inductees: Raphael Scott Waldrop from Mississippi; Sarah Rosenberg from New York; Bill Bennett from New Mexico (awarded posthumously and accepted by Cat Horner-Bennett); Matt Heimes from Nebraska; Martha Benham from Colorado; and Jonathan Alston from New Jersey.

The highest honor for any speech and debate coach is election to the NSDA Hall of Fame. Each year, nominations are sought from member coaches. In the month of April, current Hall of Fame members and coaches with at least three diamonds vote to determine which nominees will be elected members of this most distinguished body. Individuals with 25 years of NSDA coach membership prior to the start of the National Tournament (e.g., a merit date of June 16, 1999, or earlier), or who are retired from coaching and teaching, are eligible for this prestigious award.

Remember, your identity as nominator will remain confidential. Therefore, your coach biography (300 words or less) should be written in the third person and focus on the coaching history and qualifications of your candidate. The nomination deadline is February 1, 2024. Access the form on our website: www.speechanddebate.org/hall-offame-nomination-form

The NSDA Hall of Fame is neither the grandest nor the smallest Hall, but it is one of the strongest and most elite: honoring nearly a century of fine teaching and coaching of speech and debate activities for more than four decades. Its members invite you to achieve membership: Bruno E. Jacob and more than 200 honorees have marked your path.” — James M. Copeland, Director Emeritus, Hall of Fame member 52

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JOIN TH E

COMMUNITY YOU EXPERIENCED FIRSTHAND THE POWER OF SPEECH AND DEBATE, so stay connected (or reconnect!) with other speech and debate alumni by signing up for your free alumni membership.

CLAIM YOUR FREE ALUMNI MEMBERSHIP

TODAY!

We are the largest speech and debate community in the country, and we want you to be part of it!

Join now and inspire the next generation of public speakers! Sign up online at www.speechanddebate.org/ alumni

CONNECT WITH COMMUNITY | ATTEND WEBINARS | SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION—JOIN US ON LINKEDIN! www.linkedin.com/groups/92668/

I decided to include the NSDA in my estate plans because speech and debate is an activity that teaches everything from argumentation and speaking skills to humility and gracefully losing. This activity made me a different and better person, and I want to make sure that students well into the future are afforded the opportunities I was.” Aarzu Maknojia N S DA AL U M

The National Speech & Debate Association is grateful to acknowledge the following 1925 Society members for pledging a generous planned gift contribution. Byron Arthur

Albert Odom, Jr.

Phyllis Flory Barton

J. W. Patterson

Jane Boyd

Capt. Joseph L. and Jan Pizzo

James Copeland

David Price

Don and Ann Crabtree

Dr. Polly and Bruce Reikowski

Rob Dekoven

Donus and Lovila Roberts

Dr. Mike Edmonds A. C. Eley Vickie and Joe Fellers Bill and Charlotte Hicks David and Judy Huston Jennifer Jerome Harold Keller

James Rye, III Steve and Anna Schappaugh David Seikel Michael Shapiro Sandra Silvers Richard Sodikow

THE

1925 SOC I ET Y Leaving your legacy with the NSDA can be done in three easy steps: 1. Add a simple paragraph to your will stating the NSDA as a beneficiary. You can revise your gift at any time.

2. Notify Nicole Wanzer-Serrano that the NSDA has been added to your will.

William Woods Tate, Jr.

nicole@speechanddebate.org

Cherian and Betsy Koshy

Scott and Chan Waldrop

3. Celebrate knowing that you

Dr. Tommie Lindsey, Jr.

Nicole and Darrel Wanzer-Serrano

Aarzu Maknojia

Cheryl Watkins

Pam and Ray McComas

J. Scott and Megan Wunn

H. B. Mitchell

Joe and Pam Wycoff

Lanny and B. J. Naegelin

David and Tatiana Yastremski

Kandi King

will impact future generations by joining The 1925 Society!

Contact Nicole for more information: nicole@speechanddebate.org

RECOGNITION

2022-2023 TOP 100 SCHOOLS We’re proud to announce the Top 100 Schools for the 2022-2023 school year! (Please note ties.) Each year, the 100 chapters with the largest number of new degrees in the National Forensic League Honor Society receive the Top 100 Schools designation. Visit www.speechanddebate.org/school-recognition for details.

The Bronx High School Of Science, NY

35. Liberty North High School, MO

68. Denver East High School, CO

2. Regis High School, NY

36. James Logan High School, CA

69. Bozeman High School, MT

3. Leland High School, CA

37. Upper St. Clair High School, PA

70. Plano East Senior High School, TX

4. BC Academy, Canada

38. Coppell High School, TX

71. Neosho High School, MO

5. Eastview High School, MN

39. Ridge High School, NJ

71. Jefferson City High School, MO

6. George Washington High School, CO

40. Durham Academy, NC

73. Rigby High School, ID

41. Perry High School, OH

74. Lakeville North High School, MN

8. Aberdeen Central High School, SD

42. East Ridge High School, MN

75. Strake Jesuit College Preparatory, TX

9. Eagan High School, MN

42. Lake Highland Preparatory School, FL

75. Topeka High School, KS

10. Vancouver Debate Academy, Canada

44. Solon High School, OH

75. College Prep, CA

11. Washburn Rural High School, KS

44. Dougherty Valley High School, CA

78. Pocatello High School, ID

12. Bellarmine College Prep, CA

46. BASIS Peoria, AZ

78. Blue Springs High School, MO

13. Central High School, MO

47. CR North High School, PA

80. Lansing High School, KS

14. Cherry Creek High School, CO

48. Palo Alto Senior High School, CA

81. Glenbrook North High School, IL

15. Pembroke Hill School, MO

49. Highland High School, ID

82. The Potomac School, VA

16. Gabrielino High School, CA

50. Los Altos High School, CA

82. Willard High School, MO

17. Lexington High School, MA

51. Plano West Sr. High School, TX

84. Glacier High School, MT

18. Carlsbad High School, CA

51. Blue Springs South High School, MO

85. Lee’s Summit West High School, MO

19. Seven Lakes High School, TX

53. Shawnee Mission East High School, KS

86. Riverside High School, SC

20. Westwood High School, TX

54. Eden Prairie High School, MN

87. Marist School, GA

21. North Allegheny High School, PA

54. Munster High School, IN

87. Bellaire High School, TX

22. Flower Mound High School, TX

56. Liberty Sr. High School, MO

89. Blue Valley High School, KS

23. Edina High School, MN

57. Taipei American School, Taiwan

90. Bolivar High School, MO

24. Cheyenne East High School, WY

58. Shrewsbury High School, MA

91. Arizona College Prep High School, AZ

25. Cabot High School, AR

59. American Heritage School - Broward, FL

92. American Heritage Schools,

26. Newton South High School, MA

59. Rockhurst High School, MO

27. Archbishop Mitty High School, CA

61. Lincoln Southwest High School, NE

93. Summit High School, NJ

28. Lincoln East High School, NE

62. The Harker School, CA

93. Pittsburg High School, KS

29. Monta Vista High School, CA

62. Hinsdale Central High School, IL

95. Chesterton High School, IN

30. Midland Legacy High School, TX

62. Greenhill School, TX

96. Brookings High School, SD

31. Ransom Everglades School, FL

65. Lee’s Summit North, MO

97. Alhambra High School, CA

32. Hawken School, OH

66. Flintridge Preparatory School, CA

98. Downers Grove South High School, IL

33. Syosset High School, NY

67. Apple Valley High School, MN

98. Kickapoo High School, MO

Millard North High School, NE

33. Cary Academy, NC

Palm Beach Campus, FL

100. Flathead High School, MT

ROSTRUM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

COMMUNITY Dear Colleagues,

Speech and debate provides a space for many students to find their voice on issues they are passionate about. For others, it empowers them to excel academically. By interpreting literature, debating important civic topics, and memorizing/performing pieces at the highest levels, students spend their weekends in productive, structured ways that benefit themselves and our society. Imagine if every student was doing this each weekend across our country—oh, how quickly our threatened democracy would be strengthened! In 2021, in my first months as Chief Academic Officer at STRIVE Prep, a public charter school network, I embedded speech and debate in all six middle schools by reducing a 100-minute block of English to 50 minutes and adding 50 minutes of speech and debate. As a queer Black woman working in public education and serving our most vulnerable populations, I’ve always tried to make change happen now because our communities deserve better than what most public education systems currently provide. More importantly, the NSDA provided access to curriculum and encouraged participation in competitions that bring together students from all different backgrounds from all over the state. This type of integration, along educational and socio-economic lines, levels the educational playing field and bridges many opportunity gaps between myriad groups of students. In July 2022, STRIVE Prep began the process of a merger with Rocky Mountain Prep. I left the network shortly after in October 2022. Speech and debate is no longer a part of the core programming at those middle schools, but it remains the marquee program at both Rocky Mountain Prep high schools. Even with only one or two years of speech and debate in the middle schools, teachers at the high schools have seen students enter their doors with much more confidence and eagerness to start competing. Those teams have seen incredible success through their programs both in and out of rounds. Their access to competitive speech and debate is unprecedented in the underserved regions of Denver that they represent. Students who participate in these programs have higher achievement data, are accepted to and persist in college, and have more scholarship money awarded at higher rates.

Today, students need opportunities to challenge the status quo. They can do this through speech and debate by being informed on issues from multiple perspectives, challenged to write well and critically, and encouraged to collaborate, explain, and argue their perspectives. All of these experiences are provided almost year-round by the National Speech & Debate Association. Over the past couple of years, I have seen concerted efforts by the NSDA to diversify the activity by finding ways to offer the programs in lower income, Title I schools by providing funding or waiving entry fees. While there is still work to be done—like getting school districts to adopt speech and debate programming as a part of their core instruction—partnering with the NSDA is a great start, because all students deserve access to this competitive, intellectual opportunity. Sincerely,

Elisha Roberts Elisha Roberts Assistant Director of Implementation and Partnership Colorado Education Initiative

FIND MORE RESOURCES ONLINE! 56

ROSTRUM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

www.speechanddebate.org/advocacy

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SPEECH AND DEBATE IS SOMETHING TO WHICH I OWE MY LIFE. I’M FOREVER THANKFUL FOR THE MEMORIES I’VE SHARED, FRIENDS I’VE MADE, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, THE SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY HAS HAD FOR ME. LOC NGUYEN Lincoln Southwest High School, NE – Class of 2022 2022 National Student of the Year Finalist

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