Supporting speech and debate programs and civic education at underresourced middle schools and high schools.
WHY?
The impact of speech and debate programs and civic education cannot be overstated. These activities change lives, teaching students to read, write, speak and listen effectively and think critically.
Schools report increased interest in classes,increased attendance rates,higher graduation rates, decreased negative student behavior, and increased school pride.
Students experience higher GPAs, increased likelihood to meet the College Board’s benchmarks for college readiness, admission to top universities, higher student confidence and self-esteem, increased engagement in class, and increased likelihood to graduate.
“A public speaking program in middle or high school would have been helpful in developing confidence in myself and coherently expressing my thoughts.”
“My high school prioritized “Science Olympiad” and “Chess Team” and “Robotics” and generally STEM-related activities above anything humanities related. There was little support for speech or debate programs, as they were deemed less important, which is a shame because I think that type of knowledge is crucial.”
64% of college students who did not participate in a public speaking or debate program in middle school or high school wish they had.
81% believed their critical thinking skills would have been improved.
77% believed they would be better writers.
58% believed it would have bolstered their research skills.
