What events does Harker compete in?

• Public Forum Debate (PF): Two-on-two debates about public policy, designed for general audiences.
  
  

• Lincoln-Douglas Debate (LD): One-on-one debates on philosophy and public policy, typically for more specialized debate audiences.
  
  

• Congressional Debate (CD): Simulations of legislative debate where students debate peer-written proposals. Students do not have direct opponents and are ranked on individual performances.
  
  

• Speech Events (SP): Individual, polished, and often memorized speeches in a variety of categories.

How do families stay updated on Speech & Debate events?

The team web page is the best resource—it lists all events and signup deadlines. Parents can also expect periodic email updates about upcoming opportunities.

What tournaments should my student attend?

As many as possible! Coaches will recommend tournaments that align with each student’s experience and goals. We’re always happy to discuss these plans with families—please reach out with questions.

How do we sign up for tournaments and how does billing work?

• Tournament permission forms are available on the team web page.

• Once the form is submitted and the deadline has passed, families should assume they will be billed, even if the student later withdraws.

• If a student withdraws before the form due date, there is no charge.

We follow this policy because we make significant non-refundable purchases—such as flights, hotels, registration fees, and judges—well in advance.

How strict are the permission form due dates?

While we will occasionally extend a deadline, our plan is to be relatively strict. Late signups often mean higher costs, limited registration slots, or unavailable accommodations. To avoid being left out of events, please plan ahead.

Can students miss school for Speech & Debate?

Yes. Participation is considered an excused absence. Students must notify teachers, coaches, and program directors at least two weeks in advance, and should arrange to make up any missed work ahead of time.

Do parents need to make travel arrangements or chaperone?

No. Harker takes care of all travel logistics and chaperoning responsibilities.

When will we receive logistics for a tournament?

We send out detailed tournament logistics at least two weeks before travel. If you have not received information by then, please contact a coach.

Can students compete with other organizations (e.g., Modern Brain or Able2Shine)?

No. Harker students must only compete as part of the Harker team, both in person and online. Competing independently may make a student ineligible to represent Harker. Please contact a coach with questions about exceptions.

What if my student is in a partnered event but doesn’t have a partner yet?

No problem. Coaches will help pair students based on who has signed up for the event. Partnering decisions are made after permission forms are received.

What should students wear to tournaments?

Students should wear professional attire, such as: blazers, suits, dresses, jackets, blouses, collared shirts, or slacks.

They should also wear comfortable but formal shoes, as walking between buildings is common.

What should students bring to tournaments?

Students should pack in a carry-on bag, and bring:

• Cellphone (if possible) and charger

• Computer and charger

• Refillable water bottle

• Pens, paper 

• Casual clothes and tournament attire

• Toiletries

• Medicine

• Cash or credit card for food purchases

• Umbrella or winter coat (check weather!)

How do meals work at tournaments?

Meal availability varies by tournament. While coaches ensure students are fed, students may need to manage their own food orders and payments.

We recommend:

• Bringing snacks and breakfast items

• Having a food delivery app (e.g., Uber Eats or DoorDash) ready

• Having some cash or a credit card

How should students check out of a tournament?

Students must check out in person with a faculty member before leaving. If not, we will contact home and begin a search until we confirm the student’s safety.

Can parents attend events?

Yes, parents are welcome to observe! That said, we ask that students remain with the team throughout the event. For example, unless there’s a special circumstance, students should room with teammates and follow team logistics.

How can parents best support the team?

Please help your student plan ahead. Tournament dates are published early so families can avoid conflicts with other obligations (games, concerts, etc.). Given the scope of programming available at Harker, coaches cannot track individual conflicts.

What are the Speech & Debate elective options, and how do students qualify?

Middle School:

• All students may take Intro to Speech & Debate

• 7th & 8th graders may take Speech I or Debate I

• To take Speech II or Debate II, students must complete the corresponding level I class
  
  

Upper School:

• All students begin in Introduction or Intermediate Speech & Debate

  • To qualify for Intermediate: compete in 4+ tournaments or attend Harker’s Summer Speech & Debate Institute

• After year one: students take Competitive Speech & Debate each semester they are on the team

Can you be on the team without taking the elective class?

• Middle School: Yes
  
  

• Upper School: No. All team members must be enrolled in the class

Are there summer programs for Speech & Debate?

Yes! Coaches are happy to recommend camps—including the Harker Speech & Debate Institute—and discuss options with families.

Are tutoring opportunities available?

Yes. Please contact the counseling office for recommended tutors.

Are there required practice sessions for Middle School students?

While there is no mandatory number of practices, consistent attendance is strongly encouraged for growth.

Practice is held:

Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday

3:45 – 5:00 PM in Miss Bittner’s room