November 14, 2017 | A weekly publication of the National Speech & Debate Association

Dear Coach,

This week, we share details on our exciting new program for coaches and info on upcoming deadlines. Jump in below!

Introducing CONNECT Focus Weeks

We began our first CONNECT Focus Week yesterday! In this new program, the second week in each month will focus on a particular theme or topic on CONNECT, our professional learning community. We've kicked things off with Congressional Debate in response to requests from new coaches!

Have a request for an upcoming Focus Week? Share your idea with our Education and Recognition Coordinator Lauren McCool!

You can already access a set of practice drills that help debaters improve their fluency, rebuttals, delivery, and topic analysis, as well as the Intro to Coaching - Congressional Debate course on CONNECT. This free, self-paced course helps coaches understand the basics of Congress and how to coach their students in preparation for competition.

As the week goes on, we'll release materials specifically for Resource Package subscribers. Plus, on Thursday and Friday we'll ask you to share your Congressional Debate materials, including lesson plans, coaching strategies, and other resources. Start thinking of your favorites and get ready to share!

Tomorrow is Your Last Chance!

Apply to Present » If you're interested in presenting at the 2018 National Conference, time is running out! The application is due tomorrow, November 15! Sessions should support our theme of Radiant Voices: Empowerment through Speech and Debate.

Recognize an Outstanding Educator » Nominations for the State Educator of the Year awards close tomorrow, November 15! If you haven't started your nomination yet, there's still time. Remember, recipients become finalists for the National Educator of the Year award!

Board of Directors Election Year

If you are a member coach with five years of NSDA coaching experience, a current or past district chair, or a present Board member whose term expires on July 31, 2018, consider running for the national Board of Directors! In addition to representing your fellow coaches in policy decisions regarding membership, the honor society, and the National Tournament, elected members have the opportunity to help shape the organization's strategy and vision for the future.

To declare your candidacy, please notify the Executive Director in writing before January 19, 2018, by certified mail. The seats of Board members Don Crabtree, David Huston, Pam McComas, and Jay Rye are up for election in 2018.

Ballots will be made available to schools in April 2018 and results will be announced in May 2018.

Upcoming Webinars

As a member, you have access to our live webinars from excellent coaches, experienced partners, and skilled alumni. To watch, just click the session you want to attend on our Webinar page.

Extemp Drills and Strategies » Join Extemp Genie Developer Ethan Reeves for the best tricks and tips to prep for Extemp today, November 14, at 7:00 p.m. CT.

From our sponsor - be sure to share this exciting oportunity with interested students and colleagues!

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