Mount Dora Middle, South Lake High and Windy Hill Middle schools are among 102 Florida schools chosen to participate in the second phase of the Florida Civics and Debate Initiative. The schools will expand on the accomplishments of the program’s first year and continue its work to elevate civic knowledge, skills and disposition through speech and debate.
During the 2020-21 school year, the initiative established competitive speech and debate teams in 30 Florida school districts, with 59 schools and more than 2,000 student competitors. Mount Dora Middle and South Lake High were among those selected for the first phase of the program. For the 2021-22 school year, a total of 161 schools from 48 districts will participate.
“It is essential that our students have a deep understanding of our government’s structure and the fundamental principles upon which our country was founded,” Governor Ron DeSantis stated in a Florida Department of Education press release this week. “Phase 2 of the Florida Civics and Debate Initiative will give thousands more students the opportunity to build on their understanding of the Constitution and Bill of Rights, and the confidence to defend America’s founding principles.”
“The Florida Civics and Debate Initiative supports student academic success while building great citizens,” Florida Commissioner of Education Richard Corcoran added. “Research shows the many benefits that participating in debate has on critical thinking, test scores, graduation rates, and college acceptance. I am thrilled about the expansion and want to thank the incredible Florida educators who are working hard to help make this initiative available in so many Florida schools.”
Each school chosen to participate in Phase 2 will receive support next school year to start debate teams, professional development for new coaches, and support educational resources, tournament transportation, coach stipends and membership in the National Speech and Debate Association.
The Florida Civics and Debate Initiative also announced the dates for several upcoming competitions and student opportunities available this year.
- Florida Civics and Debate Initiative Summer Camps, June 21-July 2, 2021
- National Civics and Debate Championship, November 12-14, 2021
“Debate is a team sport,” said Florida Civics and Debate Initiative Director Beth Eskin. “These programs help students develop problem-solving, communication, teamwork and analytical skills. It’s so rewarding to watch students grow in their craft and to work with dedicated coaches and volunteers who are passionate about bringing these important life skills to their students. As we move into Phase 2, I am excited to help the Florida Civics and Debate Initiative implement its mission and work with our newest coaches and students experiencing debate for the first time.”
Details and updates regarding Florida Civics and Debate Initiative events will be made available at www.floridaeducationfoundation.org/fcdi.
