Civic Debate Academy is now hosting debate and speaking classes for Portland! CDA debate is the #1 ranked speech and debate class in Portland and we can't wait to work with your child!
CDA has smoothed out my transition between local competition and debate at the national level with generous considerations regarding my family’s financial situation. From the weekly lectures to the tight-knit labs, the tailored education at CDA has helped me hone my technical debate skills and become a better speaker.
Adonay Mahatsente-Tewelde
University of Pennsylvania c/o 2029
Intro to Debate - Elementary School
Dates: Mar 04, 2025 – May 08, 2025
Times: Tuesdays 7:00-8:00 PM CST, or Thursdays 8:00-9:00 PM CST
In Partnership With:
Price (R/NR): $549 / $
Price: $549
Develop your child's confidence through public speaking! Research shows a strong link between communication abilities and academic success; our class will build just that through fun games and activities!
Times: Tuesdays 6:00-7:00 PM CST, or Wednesdays 6:00-7:00 PM CST, or Thursdays 8:00-9:00 PM CST
In Partnership With:
Price (R/NR): $549 / $
Price: $549
Focuses on mastering debate structure and argumentation using current events and social studies. Students sharpen critical thinking skills, gaining a deeper understanding of real-world issues to craft thoughtful, persuasive arguments.
Times: Tuesdays 7:00-8:00 PM CST, or Thursdays 8:00-9:00 PM CST
In Partnership With:
Skill Level: Introductory
Price (R/NR): $549 / $
Price: $549
Develop your child's confidence through public speaking! Research shows a strong link between communication abilities and academic success; our class will build just that through fun games and activities!
Times: Tuesdays 6:00-7:00 PM CST, or Wednesdays 6:00-7:00 PM CST, or Thursdays 8:00-9:00 PM CST
In Partnership With:
Skill Level: Introductory
Price (R/NR): $549 / $
Price: $549
Focuses on mastering debate structure and argumentation using current events and social studies. Students sharpen critical thinking skills, gaining a deeper understanding of real-world issues to craft thoughtful, persuasive arguments.
Debate sharpens students’ critical thinking, requiring them to evaluate multiple perspectives, construct well-reasoned arguments, and respond to opposing views.
Supercharge Confidence
Debate empowers students to articulate their thoughts clearly, handle adversity, and engage confidently in real-world discussions, enhancing their communication skills and self-assurance.
Understand The World
Engaging with debate topics makes learning relevant and dynamic, fostering informed citizens who can articulate diverse perspectives and understand the world around them.
Boost College Admissions
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.