Why NSD?
The National Symposium for Debate (NSD) provides year-round online debate classes for students in grades 5–12. Through structured curriculum, full-time instructors, and fun, high-energy learning environments, NSD helps students build confidence with public speaking, sharpen critical reasoning skills, research efficiently and write persuasively at every level of experience.
Our track record speaks for itself. Since 2004, we have served over 5,000 students who have gone on to win 500+ national high school debate championships and earn 1,000+ qualifying bids to the Tournament of Champions, the most prestigious High School tournament in the United States.
Our mission is to provide exceptional learning experiences for all of our students, built on educational excellence, personalized, hands-on education with debate’s best educators, and a driven, fun, and supportive community of learners.
Students and coaches take a lab photo to commemorate a fun and productive summer of debate education.
Values
NSD students are caught in action practicing speaking drills during camp.
Personalized education
We believe that every student can benefit from debate education, and NSD has a place for each student. From students who are just starting in debate, to students who are well-versed in high level competitive debate, we have a personalized approach, curriculum track, and specialized teachers to fit their needs.
Active learning
We believe that students learn best when they have ownership over their education. NSD focuses on small group learning, so that students are engaged and honing their debate skills in collaborative activities with close guidance and feedback from instructors.
Life-changing skills
We believe in teaching students life-changing skills. The core skills of debate–advocacy, argument analysis, collaboration, synthesizing research, and public speaking–help our students succeed in their academic work, college admissions, and ultimately in their lifetime career pursuits.
Fun, safe Class experiences
We believe that classes should be an active, fun, supportive and safe learning environment for every student. We seek to enable every student to thrive and make lifelong connections formed through our classes.
Parental Support
We prioritize providing information and support to parents as they plan their student’s journey in debate. It can be overwhelming to navigate the world of debate training, and we are here to be partners with NSD parents in helping our students succeed.
NSD students take notes during an interactive seminar.
Have questions? Contact us
VALUES
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