Debate Club

Horizon Congress/Debate/Speech

BPS 2026-27 DEBATE

Debate is middle/high school competition that is held regionally, and at a state and national level. 6th graders can participate in the practices but cannot compete until in 7th grade. Starting in 9th grade, students could compete for the national tournament. Practices have 2 times each week at Horizon Middle School and 2 practices weekly at Century High School starting October 1st until early February. The season has two different topics (one for November/December and another for January/February).

Debate meetings will be held at Horizon Middle School on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00–5:00 p.m. through January.

There are two categories of debate. Public Forum debate is a two-person team debate while Lincoln Douglas debate is an individual activity. You will learn how to research, evaluate sources, structure arguments, improve speaking skills and to think on your feet. It is a great activity for anyone who wants to improve their skills in speaking, writing and research that are critical to success in school now, high school, college and jobs-no matter what area of work you want to do.

Practices: It is good to attend twice a week until cases are written; however, it is not required. Students can start at any time. Students can start with either topic. And students do not have to compete at every tournament. The more tournaments tend to provide the best feedback and improvement in skill, but even one tournament can help a student learn.

November
14 -  Fargo North Debate
21 - TBD
December
5 – Grand Forks Crosstown Debate - GF Red River
12 – Fargo South HS
19 – NSDA Shanley (high school students only)
January
19 - Fargo Davies Debate - Fargo Davies
16 – Bismarck Century 
23 - Horace
30 – NDHSAA competition to qualify for State – Fargo Davies
February
6–NDHSAA State Debate -Davies High School - Fargo

Coach Jannelle Combs (jannelle_combs@bismarckschools.org) and cell is (701) 306-0039