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Students at Fairmont Private School in Anaheim Hills grow confidence and sharpen their critical thinking through our Middle School Speech & Debate program. From in-class electives to a competitive after-school team, students practice quick thinking, clear communication, and collaborative problem-solving in real-world debates.  Whether they’re brand new to public speaking or already passionate about argument, students step up, speak out, and discover the power of their own voice.
The Anaheim Hills Debate Team has built a strong record of success. Many students go on to rank first in state and national debate performance tables.
OCDL League Success
AHC students consistently earn top speaker, top team, and top school awards
From vocabulary to cultural understanding, students build cognitive flexibility and the confidence to connect, collaborate, and form friendships across cultures - essential skills for a globally connected world.
The Anaheim Hills Campus Speech & Debate Program gives Middle School students (Grades 6–8) an exciting space to learn, grow, and compete through academic debate.Â
Students can:Â
Most students train and compete in Modified Parliamentary debate – a dynamic 3-versus-3 format that rewards quick thinking, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving. Students analyze issues, build well-reasoned cases, and respond confidently to opposing arguments, all within a timed, fast-paced structure used by leagues across the country.Â
As one of the best private schools in Anaheim Hills, students debate a wide range of resolutions linked to current events, ethics, science, and public policy, such as:Â
These topics challenge students while remaining engaging and age-appropriate for middle school learners.Â
Competitive debaters take part in five tournaments each year through the Orange County Debate League. These events give students regular opportunities to test their skills and track their progress against teams from across the region. The league also hosts an annual workshop – an immersive, hands-on learning experience designed for both new and experienced debaters.Â
Students can also choose to join optional academic travel experiences to major US cities such as Boston, New Orleans, Seattle, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and New York. On these trips, students compete, connect with peers, and explore vibrant cultural and historic destinations.Â
Participation in Speech & Debate helps students develop key academic and life skills
Students investigate issues in depth, evaluate evidence, and weigh different perspectives. They learn how to build clear, logical arguments and adapt quickly when new information is introduced.Â
Learners practice speaking in front of others, organizing their thoughts, and presenting ideas with clarity and poise. Over time, they become more self-assured communicators who are comfortable expressing their views.Â
At Fairmont AHC, students work in teams to prepare cases, share strategies, and support one another during rounds. They develop strong listening skills, learn to lead discussions, and build positive, respectful relationships.Â
Learners gather information from reliable sources, identify key points, and structure their arguments effectively. They learn how to manage preparation time, take organized notes, and present complex ideas in a way that is easy for others to follow.Â
Research and argumentation matter, but learning to question context and understand perspective is even more important.
Ben Hughes
Debate Team Teacher
Join the Fairmont Anaheim Hills Speech & Debate Program to build confidence, sharpen critical thinking, and discover the power of every student’s voice - on stage and beyond.
