This fall, Dr. Brendan Stern of Gallaudet University visited the Texas School for the Deaf (TSD) to lead an engaging debate workshop with middle and high school students. The interactive sessions introduced students to the fundamentals of debate through hands-on activities, mini-debates, and strategic drills designed to build critical thinking, confidence, and expressive skills. Students responded with enthusiasm, energy, and a clear curiosity about how debate works both in and beyond the classroom.
During the workshop, Dr. Stern emphasized that debate is more than competition—it is a tool for learning how to think critically, understand multiple perspectives, and communicate with conviction. He encouraged students to see debate as a space where Deaf voices belong and matter, highlighting its role in leadership development and civic engagement. His approach showed students that debate can be rigorous, fun, and deeply relevant to their own experiences.
Dr. Stern’s visit was part of a broader national effort by the Center for Democracy in Deaf America to expand debate opportunities for deaf and hard of hearing students. To learn more about the impact of these workshops and how schools across the country are getting involved, read the full article from Gallaudet University here that features our students:
https://gallaudet.edu/center-democracy-deaf-america/gallaudet-presentations-at-schools-and-colleges-across-the-country-encourage-deaf-people-to-get-in-on-the-debate/