Speech & Debate
Grade 9-12: Various Levels
Our Speech and Debate classes build confidence, improve communication, and increase critical thinking skills of students. Outside of the classroom, students hone these skills by competing in interscholastic tournaments at the local, district, state and national level. Students compete in Lincoln-Douglas and Public Forum debate styles in addition to speaking events such as Domestic and International Extemp, Informative and Original Oratory. We also have students who compete in interpretive events like Poetry, Prose and Dramatic Interp.
FBCA’s Speech and Debate Team compete in a dozen local tournaments annually in addition to District, State and National competitions. Some of the students want to improve their speaking skills for presentations, some want to attend law school and need to learn how to make a sound argument and some just want the skills to persuade their parents for a later curfew. Regardless of why they have joined the team or how competitive they want to be, the coach’s primary goal for each student is one of self-discovery so they find their voice.
Join the FBCA Speech & Debate Team to unlock the power of your voice.
“While our students love returning from tournaments with trophies and medals, the greatest reward is watching students learn how to articulate their point of view. I can think of no other program where teenagers have a platform to discuss current events, to share their personal opinions and to have a captive audience of students and adults.” - Coach Michelle Walker
“Speech and Debate has made a huge impact on our child’s self confidence and has greatly improved his communication skills.” - Parent Melissa Evans
“In my experience, speech and debate is the single best class a high school student can take to prepare for success in college. I love to see my child develop research and presentation skills in a professional manner.” - Parent Megan Dorsey
