October 10, 2016  |  A weekly publication of the National Speech & Debate Association

Dear Coach,

Read on for election related classroom content and what we're excited about this week! 

WHAT'S HAPPENING 

Rural School Forum » As part of our effort to learn more about the challenges of rural school participation in speech and debate, and to encourage programs in rural communities, the NSDA is exhibiting at the Rural Education National Forum in Columbus, Ohio, this week. If your school is attending, please ask them to stop by Booth 10 on the second floor!

Policy Debate Topic Voting » This week is the last chance for chapter advisors and member students to help select the 2017-2018 Policy Debate resolution. To access the link to vote online, visit www.speechanddebate.org/topics and follow the online ballot instructions. The two most preferred topic areas will be placed on a second online ballot in November. Voting closes October 15 at 4:00 p.m. CT.

ELECTION CORNER

Voices of the Future Polls & Watch Parties » Thank you to the coaches and students who attended watch parties across the country for the Vice Presidential Debate and to the hundreds of others who participated in our online polling. As part of our Voices of the Future program, we will also host a national poll throughout the Presidential Debate on October 19. We know that we can count on you to inform students and to encourage them to participate. Click here for a customizable flyer to distribute. Our goal is to have thousands of students and coaches participate in our poll so help us spread the word! If you are interested in hosting a future watch party as part of our program, email steve.schappaugh@speechanddebate.org to learn more.

Bingo Cards » The VP Debate bingo cards were a big hit with students and a great way to keep them engaged throughout the night! Bring the debates into your classroom or watch party by asking students to fill out a card with buzzwords they think will be used in the debate and giving a prize to the first blackout card. Click here to download your card.  

ACCESS YOUR RESOURCES 

Policy Debate Starter Files » Members, jump into the season with the 2016-2017 Policy Debate Starter files, written by coach Sean Kennedy. Get started prepping here!  

Resource Package Exclusives » There is a ton of upcoming content you can access with the Resource Package in October and November! Subscribers can look forward to the LD Topic Analysis Update, outlining affirmative and negative arguments and approaches to the topic. Fall will also bring an expanded PF Topic Research Guide and exclusive practice Extemp questions to help students prep. The Policy Debate Files Updates will provide new arguments and expansions throughout the year to keep files fresh. For novices and experienced competitors alike, these resources are a great way to practice for big fall tournaments! Visit our Resource page and use the "Resource Pkg" filter to see a complete list of tools and content. 

NEW COACH CORNER