America’s #1 Ranked

Speech & Debate Classes for Ambitious Students

Wherever you are, your debate journey starts at Civic Debate Academy–with expert instruction and a proven path to success.

IT’S FREE

Trusted by 2000+ Families

At Civic Debate Academy, our Travel Team competes nationally, while classes strengthen skills for growth. Whether competing or learning, we help you excel.

Your LEarning JOurney

View your child’s Potential Journey

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Select a grade and starting experience to see a personalised roadmap of debate programs - from intro to varsity competition.

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Why are we #1?

Unmatched Expertise, Proven Results

Students debating

Ivy League Success

Our students are consistently accepted to top-tier universities. Debate has proven to be one of the strongest predictors of college admissions, showcasing critical thinking, communication skills, and leadership that top schools value.

Harvard University
Chicago University
Princeton University
Vanderbilt University
Yale University
Columbia University
Dartmouth
Harvard University
Chicago University
Princeton University
Vanderbilt University
Yale University
Columbia University
Dartmouth
Harvard University
Chicago University
Princeton University
Vanderbilt University
Yale University
Columbia University
Dartmouth
Harvard University
Chicago University
Princeton University
Vanderbilt University
Yale University
Columbia University
Dartmouth

Nationally Ranked

Our programs consistently produce nationally ranked debaters, proving the effectiveness of our training and guidance. By joining, your child will gain the skills, confidence, and opportunities needed to compete and succeed at the highest levels.

Critical Thinking and Communication

Debate teaches students critical thinking and communication skills. CDA members learn how to evaluate information, find answers, and package information, explaining it confidently to peers, adults, and college admissions officers.

Active Learning

Our active learning approach engages students in hands-on activities and discussions, ensuring they learn by doing. Led by professional teachers and educators, our classes foster critical thinking and meaningful skill development.

Top-Tier Faculty

Learn from championship-winning coaches and debaters. Our experienced faculty bring unparalleled expertise and a proven track record to help students succeed both in competitions and beyond.

Public Speaking

In the 21st century, strong communication skills are the number one differentiator. Our program helps students build the confidence and clarity needed to excel in public speaking, giving them an edge in school, college, and beyond.

Boosting Confidence

Boosting Confidence

Our debate classes are designed to help students build confidence through practice, feedback, and real-world application. Your child will learn to articulate ideas clearly, think critically, and speak with poise in any setting.

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Our Fall 2026 Debate Programs

Debate builds confidence and critical thinking for success. At Civic Debate Academy, our Travel Team competes nationally, while classes strengthen skills for growth. Whether competing or learning, we help you excel.

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Online Classes

Our online debate classes for kids and teens are designed to be engaging, interactive, and skill-building—preparing students for competitive speech and debate success.

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Competitive Programs

National Debate Club is our elite travel team—offering advanced training, tournament competition, and hands-on experience for students ready to compete at the highest level.

Summer Camps

Structured camps for middle and high school students built by classroom teachers and top-ranked debate coaches. From first speech to TOC prep, every level has a pathway.

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Still Unsure Where to Start?

We’re here to guide you. Whether you need advice on level placement or want to learn more about our program, our team is ready to assist.

What’s on your mind?

Frequently Asked Questions

CDA offers both online classes across the country and in-person class in Chicago to fit students’ needs, ensuring flexibility and access to high-quality coaching regardless of location. The National Debate Club Travel Team is hosted online with in-person and online tournaments.