The Statistics
The Statistics
Speech and debate has a slew of academic benefits for students. From increased test scores, an increase in attendance, and higher acceptances at T10 colleges, particpation in speech and debate is a major indicator of educational success and attainment.
If Speech and Debate is so Important, Why do so Many Schools Lack it?
One major reason for limited access to forensics among rural schools is an overall lack of funding. As stated by Education Week, rural schools received only 16.2% of district funding from 2018 to 2019.
With resources provided to rural schools stretched thin, extracurricular like forensics are the first to suffer.
But secondly, participating in speech and debate isn't easy. Even if you have the means to start or join a team, the entire process of competing and running a program can be understandably confusing. That's why Forensics 4 Schools matters. Through our organization, we want to make speech and debate more accessible to rural students, coaches, and schools. Check out our programs page to learn more about our work and the resources we provide!