Club Advisor Contact Information:

Mrs. Ann Alcaide | aalcaide@ramsey.k12.nj.us

All students are welcome to participate, see Mrs. Alcaide in room 305 for details.  The club will meet once a week during lunch.  There is usually one tournament a month beginning in September and going through until March. 

Mission statement:

The Ramsey High School Debate Club provides an excellent opportunity for students who are interested in current events to engage in the art of civil discourse and discussion.  We take the preparation of our cases and our participation in debate tournaments very seriously, however our club emphasizes respect for others, tolerance, learning and fun.  Teams will compete against other local high schools in Bergen County.

The style of debate used in this league is a Public Forum Debate.  Team-based advocacy groups argue either for or against a position described and selected yearly by the New Jersey Debate League.  Teams are composed of two partners: a first speaker and a second speaker.  Cases are argued from either the PRO side or the CON side.
 
By preparing for and engaging in debate tournaments, Debate Club members will learn how to:

• work well with others and develop teamwork
• research and analyze complex & current issues
• organize contentions into persuasive  cases
• defend a position using logic and evidence
• engage in articulate and educated discourse with maturity and professional decorum
• think on their feet
• learn about important, timely issues facing our communities and our world 

There is no experience in debate or speech required, however, dedication, hard work, perseverance and a great attitude are key assets for any successful debater.