National Speech & Debate Association

National Speech & Debate Association Visit us at www.speechanddebate.org!
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The National Speech & Debate Association connects, supports, and inspires a diverse community committed to empowering students through competitive speech and debate.

06/15/2026

Before the awards, the titles, and the accomplishments, there was a moment.

A moment when speech and debate felt like home.

We asked our Student of the Year finalists to share when they first knew they belonged.

The first rounds of the 2026 National Tournament are officially underway, and Congressional Debate got a memorable start...
06/15/2026

The first rounds of the 2026 National Tournament are officially underway, and Congressional Debate got a memorable start this morning!

Speech & debate alum U.S. Senator Tim Kaine stopped by to swear in our student representatives and senators before they took the floor. Along the way, he shared advice with the next generation of leaders, met competitors from his alma mater, Rockhurst High School, and even signed a Constitution and a harmonica. (Not your average Monday morning.)

A huge thank you to Senator Kaine for helping us kick off and inspiring students as they begin a week of competition, leadership, and unforgettable experiences. 🦅🏛️🇺🇸

06/14/2026

Speech and debate kids will travel across the country to compete. We have the evidence. 🧾

One of the highest NSDA honors is Student of the Year. Today, our five finalists will meet and have their final intervie...
06/14/2026

One of the highest NSDA honors is Student of the Year. Today, our five finalists will meet and have their final interview. We couldn't be more excited to get to meet these inspirational competitors. 🏆

Not every National Tournament memory happens in a competition. 🦅✨Grab your teammates and start checking off these Richmo...
06/13/2026

Not every National Tournament memory happens in a competition. 🦅✨

Grab your teammates and start checking off these Richmond must-dos while you're in town for !

Want even more ideas for your trip? Explore more via Visit Richmond now! ➡️ https://bit.ly/2HKuMMG

🦅 The eagle has landed!We're excited to welcome students, coaches, judges, and speech & debate supporters from around th...
06/11/2026

🦅 The eagle has landed!

We're excited to welcome students, coaches, judges, and speech & debate supporters from around the world to Richmond, Virginia this weekend to kick off the largest academic competition in the world.

Traveling to join us? Be sure to visit our website and download the Guidebook app for schedules, maps, updates, and everything you need to make the most of your tournament experience. We can't wait to see you in Richmond! ➡️ https://bit.ly/3QANABZ

For more than 100 years, speech and debate has transformed students’ lives.As we step into our next century, we’re conti...
06/09/2026

For more than 100 years, speech and debate has transformed students’ lives.

As we step into our next century, we’re continuing to build toward a future where every student has access to the life-changing power of speech and debate.

The National Speech & Debate Initiative is focused on growing programs, supporting communities, and creating new opportunities for students nationwide. This is just the beginning.

Learn more about the initiative on our website now!
➡️ https://www.speechanddebate.org/nsdi/

We are excited to announce the 2026 Coach and Administrator of the Year award winners!  Congratulations to these outstan...
05/28/2026

We are excited to announce the 2026 Coach and Administrator of the Year award winners!

Congratulations to these outstanding coaches and administrators who go above and beyond to support speech and debate!

2026 High School Coach of the Year
Kathleen Walker
Fairmont High School, MN
Southern Minnesota District

2026 High School New Coach of the Year
Taylor Clapp
Blackfoot High School, ID
Idaho Mountain River District

2026 High School Assistant Coach of the Year
Julie Parr
Vienna High School, IL
Greater Illinois District

2026 Administrator of the Year
Dustin Combs
Director of Federal Programs, Knott County Board of Education, KY
Kentucky District

2026 Middle School Coach of the Year
Heather Huffman
The Village Middle School
Texas

Join us in congratulating them in the comments below!

Congratulations to the 2026 National Student of the Year finalists! These students were nominated by their districts for...
05/27/2026

Congratulations to the 2026 National Student of the Year finalists!

These students were nominated by their districts for their commitment to the tenets of the Code of Honor: humility, equity, integrity, respect, leadership, and service.

The winner will be announced at the National Tournament in Richmond next month!

Address

6600 Westown Parkway, Suite 270
West Des Moines, IA
50266

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