Bring debate to your campus, without the overwhelm.

You don’t need to be a debate expert to start a debate program. You just need a partner who knows how to build one. At Debate Matters, we help schools launch and grow debate programs at any grade level—elementary, middle, or high school. Whether you’re training a new teacher, expanding enrichment options, or fielding questions from parents, we can help you create something that works for your students and staff.

Debate doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. We can help you start small with minimal investment, then grow the program over time. We even support in-school leagues and classroom programs, so your students can get the benefits of debate—even if you’re not ready for interscholastic competition.

Why Your School Should Have a Debate Program

  • Students need it in an AI world

    Debate teaches students to ask, “Is this true?”—a critical habit when AI can generate anything.

  • It cultivates empathy

    Students regularly argue both sides, which builds perspective-taking and emotional intelligence.

  • It strengthens communication skills

    Students learn to express themselves clearly, persuasively, and with confidence.

  • It supports DEI goals

    Debate gives voice to students who might otherwise be overlooked. It levels the playing field through argument, not background.

  • It improves academic performance

    Studies show debaters outperform peers in GPA, attendance, and college readiness.

  • It’s something parents are asking for

    Debate appeals to families who value critical thinking, civic engagement, and leadership development.

  • The sky is the limit

    Students can compete in local leagues, qualify for state and national championships, and even represent their country on the world stage.

Debate: The ultimate cross-disciplinary activity a school can offer.

It brings together history, English, civics, science, ethics, and current events—then asks students to make sense of it all in real time. No other activity builds such a wide range of academic and cognitive skills in such a focused, high-engagement format.

How We Can Help

The Debate Program Jump-Starter

Our flagship service for schools looking to begin or reboot a debate program—at any grade level. The Jump-Starter includes:

  • A detailed roadmap tailored to your school’s needs, schedule, and resources

  • One-on-one training for your chosen teacher or coach

  • Sample curriculum and teaching materials

  • Starter events and in-class activities to build excitement

  • Guidance on joining local leagues or building your own internal circuit

We also offer a la carte services and custom packages, including:

  • Weekly coaching for students or teams

  • Direct instruction for your debate class or elective

  • Judge training and tournament support

  • Curriculum design and onboarding for new instructors

  • End-of-unit debates for civics, ELA, or social studies classes

  • Summer programming and intersession offerings

All services are available for elementary, middle, and high school programs—adapted to the developmental level and goals of your students.

Summer Debate Programs

Academic enrichment. Community engagement. Financial sustainability.

A summer debate program gives your students a head start in critical thinking, research, argumentation, and public speaking—while reinforcing what they’re already learning in the classroom. It’s also an opportunity to showcase your school to the wider community, attracting new families, highlighting academic excellence, and strengthening your reputation for innovation and enrichment.

Whether you already have a team or are starting one from scratch, we can help you design and run a high-quality summer debate experience that aligns with your school’s goals. Debate Matters supports elementary, middle, and high school summer programs—customized to your needs. We can train your teachers, supplement your team, or deliver full-service instruction with our expert staff, on-site or online.

Why Offer a Summer Debate Program?

  • Academic alignment

    Debate reinforces literacy, research, critical thinking, and communication goals already embedded in your curriculum.

  • A strong start for new programs

    Summer programming can jumpstart interest in debate before school resumes, building a motivated base of students and parent buy-in.

  • Engagement during out-of-school time

    Keeps students connected to learning during breaks, especially those looking for advanced or accelerated content.

  • Leadership development

    Older students or alumni can help as instructors or assistants, reinforcing community and continuity.

  • A potential fundraiser

    Charge outside students or build it into extended learning programs—either way, the revenue can help fund your debate program during the year.

  • Flexible formats

    Full-day, half-day, or online. One week or five. We work with your facilities, calendar, and goals.