Mission Statement
Founded in 2002, and revived in 2013, the New District of Columbia Urban Debate League is a non-profit organization [501(c)(3)] that acts to facilitate debate programs and tournaments in the national capital area, focusing on expanding debate to schools that have not had this option in the past. Numerous studies, collected and reviewed by the National Association for Urban Debate Leagues, demonstrate that debate offers tremendous benefits both to gifted students and to students who are struggling in achievement levels and are not on track to attend college or even graduate. Debate in Washington, D.C., of all places in the country, is especially exciting, and we rely on the support of educators in the city to create an environment of learning, creativity, and achievement.
Description
The league works in partnership with all schools to support scholastic debate teams in both high school and middle school. We train teachers in coaching techniques, debate formats, and teaching methods to use debate in the classroom. The league administers around ten to twelve tournaments each year, separating high school and middle school.
The District of Columbia Urban Debate League involves many of the best educational institutions in the national capital area, and we are always seeking to expand debate in our region. All schools are welcome.
To participate in the league and follow developments, please fill out this form as a coach. You will be invited to our listserv.
Some of our current schools include: Washington Latin Public Charter School, Thurgood Marshall Academy, Cesar Chavez Public Charter Schools for Public Policy, Woodstream Christian Academy, Eleanor Roosevelt High School, Anacostia High School, Phelps High School, BASIS DC, Suitland High School, Crossland High School, Kenmoor Middle School, The Lab School of Washington, Rachel Carson Middle School, Alice Deal Middle School, Whittier Education Campus, Sidwell Friends School, Longfellow Middle School, Walker Mill Middle School, Samuel Ogle Middle School, and Thomas W. Pyle Middle School.
