Dear Prospective New Parents and Students,

I am thrilled to invite you to join the Edina Debate team. Edina has a long history of debate excellence, winning numerous state and national championships; if you’re looking to be a part of a powerhouse, we’d love to have you!  Here are some key facts about the team:

• We offer Policy, Public Forum, Lincoln-Douglas and Congressional Debate. Each has their own pros and cons alongside a unique combination of strategy and research.

• All formats develop critical thinking skills that open doors for students. It’s why debate looks good to colleges –the Wall Street Journal reports that debate is the most sought-after activity in elite college admissions.

• Edina debaters clerked at the US Supreme Court, run national nonprofits and investment firms, taught at prestigious universities and made medical discoveries; click here for testimonials.

We will conduct an interest meeting at EPAC (Edina Performing Arts Center) at Edina High School at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, August 26th, 2025  

Students can sign up on the team website HERE; additional information about the team is also posted on the Debate Team Schedule page. Novice practice will begin on Thursday, August 28th and will run every week on Tuesday and Thursday at Edina High School from 7:00 to 9:00 PM.

Looking forward to an excellent year!

Joe Schmitt

Head Debate Coach, Edina High School

joseph.schmitt@edinaschools.org