Empowering Every Voice

At Stoneleigh-Burnham, students are encouraged to share their ideas, ask thoughtful questions, and engage meaningfully with the world around them. The Debate & Public Speaking Society builds on our longstanding culture of student voice and leadership, offering opportunities to take those skills a step further while developing the ability to think critically in fast-paced environments, communicate clearly and effectively, and present ideas with confidence.

Through weekly meetings, regular competitions, and community events, students analyze complex issues, craft persuasive arguments, and strengthen their ability to speak with clarity. Whether participating for the first time or competing in tournaments across the region and around the world, students gain valuable experience expressing their ideas with confidence and purpose.

 

Debate & Public Speaking Society

The Debate & Public Speaking Society brings together students in grades 7–12 who are interested in strengthening their communication skills, exploring complex ideas, and engaging in thoughtful conversation, no matter their experience level.

Students in Debate & Public Speaking:

  • Practice public speaking and debate
  • Explore current issues and develop arguments
  • Receive feedback and coaching
  • Build confidence presenting ideas
     

Students meet regularly throughout the year to refine their skills and support one another as speakers and thinkers.

 

Types of Debate & Speaking

Students in the Debate & Public Speaking Society participate in a variety of speaking events that challenge them to present ideas clearly and respond thoughtfully to new perspectives.

  • Persuasive Speaking
    Students deliver a prepared speech on a topic they care about, building a clear argument and supporting it with research.
  • Interpretive Reading
    Students bring literature to life through expressive reading and performance.
  • Impromptu Speaking
    Students are given a topic and a short preparation time before delivering a structured speech.
  • Parliamentary Debate
    Students research current issues and engage in structured debate, responding to opposing viewpoints and defending their arguments.
  • After Dinner Speech
    Students deliver a prepared speech designed to entertain as well as inform, often using humor, storytelling, and a light, tongue-in-cheek approach to engage their audience.

 

Competition Opportunities

Students may choose to compete in tournaments through the Debating Association of New England Independent Schools (DANEIS).

Competition is optional, but many students who participate enjoy the opportunity to:

  • Challenge themselves and stretch their skills
  • Connect with students from other schools
  • Grow as speakers and thinkers
     

Stoneleigh-Burnham students have also gone on to compete at the World Individual Debating and Public Speaking Championships, held annually in locations around the world. In recent years, SBS competitors have traveled to England, South Africa, Australia, and Canada, representing the school on the international stage.

See Our World Competitors

Meet Lucas Nocera

Debate and Public Speaking Coach

Lucas' bio will go here.