Check out what's new this week, Coach!

Go Behind the Scenes of Extemp with Two-Time Champions

In this new video, two-time national champion

McKinley Paltzik explains the strategies and techniques behind her 2022 International Extemp speech answering the question, Does the future of Brazil rely upon the end of dictatorial rule?

It can be difficult for novice and intermediate students to see the gears turning behind the polished presentation in a national final round. This video joins six other video breakdowns from two-time United States Extemp champion Jackie Wei that aim to break down the strategies behind prepping and delivering a great Extemp speech.

National Tournament Info Session: Register Now!

Are you planning on attending the National Tournament? Join NSDA staff and the local hosts for an overview of 2024 National Tournament logistics and Q&A session on Monday, February 5 at 5:00 p.m. CT. A recording will be made available on the website for those unable to attend the live session. Register now »

Nominate a Coach for the NSDA Hall of Fame by Thursday

The highest honor for any high school speech and debate coach is election to the NSDA Hall of Fame. Each year, we seek nominations from member coaches like you! Individuals with 25 years of NSDA coach membership prior to the start of Nationals (e.g., a merit date of June 16, 1999, or earlier), or who are retired from coaching and teaching, are eligible. Submit a nomination by Thursday, February 1.

Stay at Simpson Application Now Open for Nationals!

We are excited to share that the Stay at Simpson application is open! Simpson College is providing free lodging for 80 students attending the 2024 National Speech & Debate Tournament in Des Moines, Iowa.

If you're not sure about your Nationals plans, go ahead and apply. You can estimate your numbers, and if your team is selected, we will sort out the details after the application drawing in March. Head to our website for the application and answers to all of your questions »

How to Ask for and Structure a Speech and Debate Class

Offering a speech and debate class can give your program stability, increase participation, and offer greater work/life balance. Our free, self-paced NSDA Learn course will help you prepare to advocate for a class. When you enroll online for free, you'll learn to:

• Showcase student and family interest. 
• Demonstrate how a class helps your school achieve its goals. 
• Determine the positioning and structure of your course. 
• Make a pitch incorporating data and student voices. 

• Prepare to adjust your pitch if your request is tabled. 

• Plan for the year ahead if your request is granted.

Sharpen Your Team's Skills with Springboard Scrimmages

Thank you for a great Capstone event on January 20—272 students participated from 58 schools! Want to join in on free practice rounds for you and your team? Check out our February dates » 

Nominate Your Equity Champions

Do you know someone whose everyday actions embody the NSDA’s core value of equity? Are they working to make speech and debate a more inclusive activity? Nominate them to be highlighted in our Rostrum segment, Faces in the Crowd. 

Questions? We're here to help! Email info@speechanddebate.org or call (920) 748-6206.

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