WARRIOR DEBATE

Middle School Debate Camp | 5 Days That Build Skills for Life

Watch your child discover their voice, think critically, and speak confidently. Our intensive debate camp teaches essential skills through Public Forum, Lincoln-Douglas, and Policy debate—all in a supportive, fun environment where every student shines.

WHY DEBATE

Debate isn't just about winning arguments. It's about building the skills that help students succeed in every area of life.

What Your Child Will Gain:

Confidence to Speak Up: Students learn to share their ideas clearly and persuasively; in class, in interviews, and in life.

Critical Thinking Skills: Debate teaches students to analyze complex issues, evaluate evidence, and think on their feet.

Respectful Communication: Learn to disagree constructively, listen actively, and understand multiple perspectives.

Academic Excellence: Debate improves writing, reading comprehension, and research skills across all subjects.

Resilience & Growth: Students develop a growth mindset, learning that challenges make them stronger.

Leadership Abilities: Build the communication and reasoning skills that leaders need.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

Perfect for students who:

Want to build confidence speaking publicly

Love to ask questions and discuss ideas
Enjoy learning about current events

Are preparing for middle school or high school debate teams

Want to improve their grades and study skills

Are looking for a fun, intellectually engaging summer experience

No experience necessary! About 70% of our campers are complete beginners.

GRADES 5-7 | ALL SKILL LEVELS

HOW TO REGISTER

Camp Tuition: $500

Includes:

5 full days of instruction
All materials and worksheets
Take-home debate workbook
Mini-tournament participation
Certificate of completion
Small group instruction

Limited to 25 students.

Sessions: July 27-31, August 17-21

Location: Wakefield HS

AM/PM Extended Care: $100-AM, $150-PM

Early Bird Discount: $450 register by April 1st

*Discount Code: WAKE26*

MEET THE DIRECTOR

Cindy Johnson-Tennille

Cindy Johnson-Tennille is a Certified Mental Performance Coach and Head Speech and Debate Coach at Wakefield High School, specializing in the mental performance training that separates good debaters from champions. With over 20 years of experience as co-founder of Momentum³, a northern Virginia based youth development company, she has mastered the art of building confidence, focus, and resilience in competitive environments.

A University of Delaware Athletics Hall of Fame inductee and former professional athlete, Cindy brings elite-level mental training to debate education. Her unique approach combines her degree in Business and Technical Writing with proven sport psychology techniques, teaching students not just what to say, but how to maintain composure under pressure, think strategically in real-time, and perform at their peak when it matters most.

FAQ

View Full Parent & Guardian FAQ

1. Does my child need debate experience?
Not at all! We welcome complete beginners. Our curriculum starts with the basics.

2. What if my child is shy?
Many successful debaters start out quiet. We create a supportive environment with lots of practice in small groups before any “performances."

3. What should my child bring?
Just lunch, a notebook, and a positive attitude! We provide all instructional materials.

4. Can parents attend?
You're invited to our awards ceremony on Day 5 at 2:45pm. Other days are student-only to help build independence.

5. Is lunch provided?
Students bring their own lunch. We provide water and an afternoon snack.

6. What about safety?
All staff are background checked. We maintain clear supervision ratios and have emergency procedures in place. For more safety details review our Waiver Release Policy.

7. Can I get a refund?
Full refund if canceled 15-29 days prior to the camp start date. Refund and Cancellation details can be found here.

Ready to Transform Your Child's Confidence?

Spaces are limited to ensure personalized attention.