The Speech and Debate Club at Shadow Ridge High School is advised by Alonso Osorio-Kalawe and meets in room 820. Currently, the club meets on Tuesdays, Wednesday, and Thursday from 1:30-2:30pm, however students are able to choose whichever days work best for their schedule. The purpose of the club is to promote public discourse while helping members develop strong professional communication and presentation skills. Students do not need any prior experience to join, and all grade levels are welcome. The team practices at least 3 times a week, participating in mock debates and speeches that help students improve their public speaking abilities and building confidence. In addition to school meetings, the club also attends local Speech and Debate tournaments within the Golden Desert Circuit, giving members the opportunity to compete against others and showcase their skills.
Being a part of the club can help students succeed in the classroom. Members of Speech and Debate find that the skills they practice during meetings such as researching topics, organizing thoughts, and speaking confidently allow them to perform better during presentations and assignments. Students find that the experience they gain in the club gives them an advantage in class.
“Being in the Speech and Debate Club has helped me so much in school. Our wonderful team was able to help me prepare for a debate in one of my classes,” Lauren Luth senior member states. “I was super prepared for this, and it was a big percent of my grade, so that was really, really helpful. Being in this club is very helpful because I learned good speaking skills and how to communicate with people effectively.”
While joining the Speech and Debate Club may feel intimidating at first, especially for students who are nervous about public speaking, members realize that it is supportive and very enjoyable.
“Some advice I would give to someone joining the club is just be confident in yourself,” Luth states. “You’re a lot better at it than you think. A lot of people are just like, ‘Oh, no, I can’t do public speaking,’ but doing Speech and Debate is a lot easier than you think. And it’s a lot more fun once you get into it. So I just say, go for it.”
For students who want to compete in tournaments, consistent attendance and practice are essential. Success in this club requires dedication, which includes spending time preparing arguments, practicing speeches, and participating in mock debates.
“Attendance is very important for members who are competing,” Osorio-Kalawe states. “Consistent practice is the only way to be successful in this field. I encourage them to come in when they have time and join in on the fun of speaking about and discussing important matters in our lives. This club is meant to be for everyone. There are no magical qualities that make someone successful. Just like in competitive sports, consistency and a structured approach to practice are vital to success.”
The Speech and Debate Club offers students a chance to grow both academically and personally. Members gain valuable life skills in organization and public speaking while building confidence. The club provides a supportive environment where everyone is able to succeed and have a good time. With dedication, practice, and willingness to practice anyone is able to find enjoyment in this club. Students who are looking to improve their communication skills while learning and competing, the Speech and Debate Club is the perfect place.
