Three words that describe the WSHS Debate Club are vibrant, civil, and fascinating, according to Mr. David Carter, English teacher and Debate club sponsor. 

The Debate Club has meetings every other week on Tuesdays from 2:30 p.m. until 3:15 p.m. in room 7-213. During the meetings members discuss how to write their arguments, how to be able to write a rebuttal, how an opponent may respond to their positions, and how to present winning speeches. 

This year, club president, junior Taylor Randa, has taken the lead in showing new members the ropes for formal debating. She has participated in several competitions and enjoys organizing the group into opposing teams to practice debating relevant topics. In addition to leading the Debate club, Randa is also the president of Young Dems, a chapter of the Semdoms, which is also a popular club on campus.

Due to Covid restrictions, the club has faced a few minor challenges. Mr. Carter said, “It’s more difficult to participate online.”However, he hopes that next year more students will join  “in order to learn to tactfully make a point without making an enemy.”

The Debate Club also gives students the opportunity to meet new people who may have different perspectives on various topics. Dr. Paula Vickers, the club’s co-sponsor said, “I’ve enjoyed getting to know such a diverse group of kids this year. I appreciate their passion for the issues that are important to them.”

Debate clubs have been around for years nationwide and have been helping students gain confidence in presenting and defending current issues. These clubs teach students how to do research in order to gain more knowledge on various topics. Anyone who is interested can join the WSHS Debate club. Please reach out to one of the sponsor’s for more information.