Fall 2024
Public forum debate is traditionally a middle or high school activity. But Mana Myers, teacher and debate club leader at Stephen Girard Elementary, knew that ASAP Debate could unlock new skills and confidence for her third and fourth grade students. With advice and support from ASAP’s debate staff, Mana adapted the debate curriculum to help develop some of Philadelphia’s youngest orators.
And in just the first year of the club, Mana quickly saw huge gains in her students.
Adds Mana, “they’re invested. One of the students is very shy and doesn’t like talking in front of people, but in watching her, you can definitely see the growth. Her rebuttals were amazing. They were on point. They know how to defend themselves now and speak up for themselves.”
Her third and fourth graders saw their growth, too.
ASAP is extremely grateful to have so many dedicated, creative club leaders at sites all over the city! Thanks to support from community members like you, ASAP offers individual, tailored support to 100+ Debate, Scrabble, Drama, and Chess clubs for K-12 students.
Your donation helps us work to ensure that all youth in Philadelphia have the opportunity to reach their full potential through after school programs that keep them safe, engaged, and inspired.