Isaac E. Young Middle School's founding Debate Team and coach Nicole Neto participated in their first debate competition – and excelled!
The competition was hosted virtually by the American Debate League and included more than 500 debaters from 10 states. The team debated whether the United States should promote the development of market-rate housing in urban neighborhoods. Over the course of three rounds, they argued both sides. Isaac Young students presented their cases and engaged in rebuttal and refutation, as well as cross-examination during which they questioned the opposing team.
Isaac Young students triumphantly earned a Middle School Team Award for finishing in fourth place out of 17 possible placements. In addition, sixth-grader Cameron Mack ranked within the top 10 middle-school speakers and earned a bronze medal.
The debate team thrived as thinkers, speakers, and leaders! When asked what it was like to represent the City School District of New Rochelle in the competition, Janeeta Latif said, "I now feel more confident to speak with better arguments and a stronger voice." Bronze-medal winner Cameron Mack exclaimed, "Join the debate team! You get to learn to argue with people for fun – and respectfully!"