Register by 3/4/25

Portland Speech & Debate Classes

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!

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Student's Voice

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!

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Intro to Debate - Middle School

Dates: Mar 04, 2025 – May 08, 2025

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.

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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:

Skill Level: Introductory

Price (R/NR): $549 / $

Price: $549

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Intro to Debate - Middle School

Dates: Mar 04, 2025 – May 08, 2025

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

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Our 2024-2025 Results

Bids

Tournaments

Team Awards

Championships

1,334

Rounds

Why Debate?

Become A Critical Thinker

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.