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Empower Voices, Ignite Minds: NEISD Speech and Debate
Speech and Debate is an energetic space where words transform into powerful instruments of communication. Our programs unlock student potential, nurturing the art of both written and oral expression, while fostering critical thinking and effective communication that transcends mere speech.
Bridging Minds, Shaping Futures:
Our Speech and Debate programs are pathways to success, crafted through years of dedication and accomplishment. Triumphs in local, regional, state, and national competitions stand as a testament to the tireless efforts of our students. Guided by coaches who inspire students to reach new heights, the philosophy of Speech and Debate at NEISD is the extension of learning beyond the basics. Through individual and group performances in both classroom and competitive settings, they hone their presentation skills, cultivate analytical thinking, and develop a profound understanding of the theory of communication.
Exploring Beyond Boundaries:
As arguments are crafted, narratives are shaped, and perspectives are challenged, students dive deep into their chosen speech and debate interest fields. Join us on this journey where words wield influence, voices carry weight, and every debate is a step toward shaping the world of tomorrow.
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Eligibility & Expectations
Eligibility
Communication Applications is offered at every NEISD high school as a graduation requirement in compliance with State of Texas current regulations. Other speech courses offered as electives at the high school level are:
- Debate
- Oral Interpretations
- Individual Studies
Presently, 13 middle schools in the district offer a debate course. The speech staff consists of 12 fully certified speech specialists. There are approximately 300 middle school students and 200 high school students enrolled in these speech programs.
Budgets for supporting these programs are campus-based and are enhanced with fundraising activities. The District Fine Arts budget provides additional support with money for transportation to contests, entry fees, hotel fees, supplies, equipment and assistance with hiring clinicians for the teams prior to the post-season schedule.
Expectations
Each high school program competes in Texas Forensic Association (TFA), National Forensic League (NFL), University of Kentucky's Tournament of Champions (TOC) and UIL meets. The tournament season continues throughout the year beginning in August and ending in June. These competitive events include:
- Cross-Examination Debate
- Lincoln Douglas Debate
- Duet Acting
- Dramatic Interpretation
- Humorous Interpretation
- Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking
- Foreign Extemporaneous Speaking
- Original Oratory
- Duo Interpretation
- Prose Reading
- Poetry Reading
- Congressional Debate
- Public Forum
- Informative
- World School Debate
- Program Oral Interpretation
Students in each program attend an average of 10 tournaments a year with an additional 4 post-season tournaments for schools with qualifying students.
Speech and Debate Coaches
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To view the entire staff directory clear all fields and click the Submit button.
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