Lately there has been a lot of talk at our school about cutting teachers and programs, and unfortunately I've become very worried that our forensics (speech and debate) will be one to go. I won't be there next year so it doesn't directly impact me, but it's still a huge deal for me and the other seniors on the team.
If any of you have ever read the book Cross-X you will have somewhat of an understanding of what our team is like. We are a minority team (virtually the only one in the state with african americans or hispanics) that doesn't get much attention from the school. We got a new state of the art football stadium endorsed by the Colts two years ago and the school has paid for professional athletes and sports casters to come speak to our athletes, yet our budget is overdrawn every year. Despite all of this, however, we are still one of the most reputable teams in the state.
Even though I won't be there competing next year I know how important continuing this program is. I can only think of two people on the team that weren't in trouble before finding speech or debate. And considering our team is between 40 and 50, I would say it's evident that forensics has had a huge impact. I've seen so many people turn their lives around because of our teachers and coaches. This program is much like this site in that it gives kids an outlet to discuss issues in society and advocate for change.
I think any school that has one of these programs could understand where I'm coming from, just imagine your team being eliminated....
I think programs that advocate for change need to be more supported and upheld. I know how cliche it sounds, but the children are the future and if we take away the foundations that expose them to the real world and teach them how to go about making changes our leaders in the future will be lacking these experiences.
Teaching Change
By vern - Posted on March 22nd, 2008
I too am a debater and a senior this year. And I understand how overdrawn the school budget get every every year. In my school, just like yours, all the athletes get new equipment, uniforms and buses... even to practice if its at a different school. Other programs such as debate and art are essentially ignored. the teacher's don't get any of their requests in those areas and we on the debate team must find our own ways to the competition that can be over an hour away.
It suck when budgets get cut, but it sucks even more when all the intellectually stimulating activities and cut down and the sports keep getting all the funding.
I understand! Debate is amazing, and should be appreciated by all!
I am also on my highschool Forensics team, and we have problems with funding as well. This year is slightly better, because we got a new coach who seems to get along well with our administration. They have bought us many of the files we need and even offered to pay for our entry fees at some state tournaments. Good luck with your team this year. =]