This website was designed to introduce our community to the Speech & Debate teams at Edina High School and the opportunities we offer. Our programs have a lengthy history of competitive excellence, winning several state and national titles and producing effective communicators in myriad fields and industries. We compete in a wide variety of events, each with their nuances. But the bottom line is we teach how to make effective arguments that persuade audiences, and these skills are invaluable in the classroom and long after graduation. Amongst our alumni are attorneys, doctors, former Supreme Court clerks, corporate and non-profit executives, professors, and more. No matter your interests, there's a place for you in our programs.
Joe Schmitt, Head Debate Coach
Yatesh Singh, Head Speech Coach
Academic benefits: creative & critical thinking, public speaking, & writing skills
Interpersonal communication benefits: collaboration, leadership, & social engagement
Long-term benefits: Improved college admissions, social networking skills, & civic engagement
Don't take our word for it - hear from EHS alums of our programs HERE.
Debate & Speech are co-curricular activities, and we believe in providing access to its benefits to all Edina Public School students. As a result, we do not require auditions or cut students and actively recruit 8th-12th grade students.
The wide range of events in each Activity allow all students to find events that match their skill sets. As a result we strive to offer all formats of Debate and all Speech events to help students find the best fit for them.
We strive for competitive success at all levels and allocate resources to ensure Novices are equally prepared to compete alongside their Varsity counterparts.
We seek a wide variety of competitive challenges at the local, state, and national levels because each provides unique learning opportunities.