A Note from Our Coach

Competitive Program

Speech and Debate at Grand Oaks High School is a COMPETITIVE PROGRAM.

Each month, your student has at least one opportunity to compete in a tournament.

All DEBATE 1 students MUST attend 1 tournament during the academic year.

All DEBATE 2-4 students MUST attend at least 2 tournaments during the academic year.

Our class fee is $150 and includes 1 tournament entry, membership to National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA)*, membership to Texas Forensic Association (TFA), research materials, and interp materials. This fee can be paid online at School Cash Online or by cash/check. Additional tournament entry fees are paid for by our Booster Club.

There is no after-school commitment, except on tournament days. There are optional after-school practices on Tuesdays and Wednesdays until 4:00 p.m.

Note: NSDA is a national honor society and active students will graduate with honors and wear honor cords at graduation.

Speech and Debate Gives Students an Edge

• Speech and debate students have a significant edge in college admissions.

• 99% of participants go to college and 90% continue on to graduate school.

• Speech and debate participation provides real cognitive and behavioral outcomes in the following areas:

  • • Improving reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills

    • Improving critical thinking skills

    • Fostering intellectual curiosity

    • Increasing motivation

    • Increasing engagement – both at-risk and gifted students engage more and act out as much as 50% less

• Learn leadership and mentor skills

• Bolster your college application

• Make friends and make a mark in a positive way in the school, community, and world!

Goals of a Grand Oaks Speaker or Debater

• Be a good communicator

• Global Citizen

• Critical Thinker and Creative Innovator

• Leader and Collaborator

• Personally Responsible

• and most importantly…