In the fall of 2011, elementary students and debating joined forces within Nashville's public schools. This program has grown from 2 participating schools in 2011, to 13 elementary and 4 middle schools for the upcoming school year 2017-2018. Debating gives children a voice in an ever-changing world. This collaboration is teaching elementary age children how to investigate new ideas, to open their minds to different viewpoints, and develop their critical thinking skills.
This league grew out of the collaboration of two fellow teachers seeking academic challenges for their students. Adrienne Neal and Kenisha Hawthorne were colleagues when the idea began to grow for elementary students debating. After, a transfer for Adrienne, the two continued to talk and debate over how to proceed. It was decided that the two schools would debate each other and from their this great league has continued to grow.
With the support and guidance of M.L. Sandoz, Director of Forensics, Vanderbilt University, this league has continued to grow. The Vanderbilt debate team has served for the past seven years as judges, supporters during the annual field trip to Vanderbilt during their debate season, and mentors to teachers and students. Ms. Sandoz also supported the league for over three years in a financial capacity.
Explore our site, make donations, volunteer, or come and witness the power of the young mind and see for yourself what they are accomplishing. Young learners are capable of exactly what WE choose to challenge them with.
Enjoy!!!!!
This league grew out of the collaboration of two fellow teachers seeking academic challenges for their students. Adrienne Neal and Kenisha Hawthorne were colleagues when the idea began to grow for elementary students debating. After, a transfer for Adrienne, the two continued to talk and debate over how to proceed. It was decided that the two schools would debate each other and from their this great league has continued to grow.
With the support and guidance of M.L. Sandoz, Director of Forensics, Vanderbilt University, this league has continued to grow. The Vanderbilt debate team has served for the past seven years as judges, supporters during the annual field trip to Vanderbilt during their debate season, and mentors to teachers and students. Ms. Sandoz also supported the league for over three years in a financial capacity.
Explore our site, make donations, volunteer, or come and witness the power of the young mind and see for yourself what they are accomplishing. Young learners are capable of exactly what WE choose to challenge them with.
Enjoy!!!!!