“Debate is meaningful for me because it gives me something to do outside of school and more time for things I like to do – like talking!”
– LillyRose, 8th grade, William H. Ziegler School
ASAP Fall Appeal Story: Debate
Last year when Cady Zuvich started Ziegler’s middle school debate club, she wanted to create a safe space after school that accepted all students – a space where participation was not restricted based on grades or behavior or talkativeness! Ziegler School (grades K-8) is a Northeast Philadelphia public school located in one of ASAP’s priority locations. And like many of the like many of the clubs we’ve profiled this fall, Ziegler’s debate program is only in its second year of operation.
But as we’ve seen, new clubs are just as excited and dedicated to ASAP programs as our more seasoned participants.
Coach Cady’s students meet weekly to prepare for ASAP’s monthly middle school debate tournaments. At each tournament, over 50 student pairs recite their finely-honed arguments while adapting in real-time to opponents’ challenges and contentions.
ASAP Debate Current Middle School Topic:
“Resolved: The United States Federal Government should substantially increase its investment in high-speed rail.”
On presenting their pro and con arguments versus students across the city, LillyRose states:
And Cady enjoys witnessing her students grow through debate in real time.
Ziegler teammates LillyRose and Ana confirmed these are changes they have come to see in themselves.
Coach Cady is so proud of her students and can only hope that more Ziegler students will benefit from the program.
Did you know 100% of ASAP school partner principals would refer ASAP to another school or site?
Looking ahead, Ana and LillyRose are excited to continue debate in high school. But for now, their focus is helping their fellow middle schoolers excel at an activity they are passionate about.
ASAP is grateful for caring coaches like Ms. Zuvich who dedicate so much of their time and energy to their students’ success. Rumor has it Coach Cady is even planning to bring more elementary–aged students into the fold this spring after interest spread throughout the school!
Safe clubs start with you!
Your donation today supports ASAP’s mission to create spaces our children, including Ziegler students, depend on to keep them safe, as well as make them feel like they belong to something greater.
