Looking for the best debate and public speaking classes for Waukee? Civic Debate Academy offers top-rated speech and debate programs for kids and teens in Iowa. Our expert instructors help students build confidence, critical thinking, and communication skills. Join the #1 ranked debate academy and give your child the competitive edge they need to succeed!
Debate builds more than speaking skills. It helps students think clearly, listen actively, form strong opinions, and express ideas with confidence. Through every argument, discussion, and presentation, students learn how their voice can create real impact.

Columbia University Semifinalist
CDA has truly been so instrumental to my debate career. All the staff are super supportive and helpful and I definitely would not have found as much success in debate without CDA.

CSU Fullerton Champion
I’d definitely recommend CDA to any debater looking to level up their skills, whether you’re just starting out or aiming to compete nationally.
Debate builds more than speaking skills. It helps students think clearly, listen actively, form strong opinions, and express ideas with confidence. Through every argument, discussion, and presentation, students learn how their voice can create real impact.

Columbia University Semifinalist
CDA has truly been so instrumental to my debate career. All the staff are super supportive and helpful and I definitely would not have found as much success in debate without CDA.

CSU Fullerton Champion
I’d definitely recommend CDA to any debater looking to level up their skills, whether you’re just starting out or aiming to compete nationally.
Debate sharpens students’ critical thinking, requiring them to evaluate multiple perspectives, construct well-reasoned arguments, and respond to opposing views.

Debate empowers students to articulate their thoughts clearly, handle adversity, and engage confidently in real-world discussions, enhancing their communication skills and self-assurance.

Engaging with debate topics makes learning relevant and dynamic, fostering informed citizens who can articulate diverse perspectives and understand the world around them.

Debate's unparalleled ability to teach essential skills makes it the number one activity for Ivy League admittance. Almost half of the 2027 Harvard class competed in a debate activity.

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.
| CLASS SCHEDULE | TIMINGS | DAY | STATUS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Aug 31, 2026 – Dec 7, 2026 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM CT TBA MondayOPEN CLASS | ||||
Sep 1, 2026 – Dec 8, 2026 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM CT TBA TuesdayOPEN CLASS | ||||
Aug 27, 2026 – Dec 3, 2026 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM CT TBA ThursdayOPEN CLASS | ||||
Aug 29, 2026 – Dec 5, 2026 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM CT TBA SaturdayOPEN CLASS | ||||
Aug 31, 2026 -Dec 7, 2026 | 7:00 PM -8:30 PM CT | Monday | OPEN CLASS | |
Sep 1, 2026 -Dec 8, 2026 | 8:00 PM -9:30 PM CT | Tuesday | OPEN CLASS | |
Aug 27, 2026 -Dec 3, 2026 | 6:00 PM -7:30 PM CT | Thursday | OPEN CLASS | |
Aug 29, 2026 -Dec 5, 2026 | 5:00 PM -6:30 PM CT | Saturday | OPEN CLASS |
| CLASS SCHEDULE | TIMINGS | DAY | STATUS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep 2, 2026 – Dec 9, 2026 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM CT TBA WednesdayOPEN CLASS | ||||
Aug 27, 2026 – Dec 3, 2026 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM CT TBA ThursdayOPEN CLASS | ||||
Aug 30, 2026 – Dec 6, 2026 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM CT TBA SundayOPEN CLASS | ||||
Sep 2, 2026 -Dec 9, 2026 | 6:00 PM -7:30 PM CT | Wednesday | OPEN CLASS | |
Aug 27, 2026 -Dec 3, 2026 | 7:00 PM -8:30 PM CT | Thursday | OPEN CLASS | |
Aug 30, 2026 -Dec 6, 2026 | 5:00 PM -6:30 PM CT | Sunday | OPEN CLASS |