Scholars from across New York City, Staten Island and Long Island gathered at P.S. 21 in Flushing, Queens, on Saturday, May 16, for an exciting and competitive elementary school debate tournament. The event brought together approximately 100 attendees, including teams from all five boroughs and beyond, showcasing the growing enthusiasm for academic debate among younger scholars. We proudly recognized these fifteen South Shore scholars who, without even realizing it, were making history for our school.
Participants ranged mainly from 4th to 6th grade, with most scholars in 5th grade. Notably, our South Shore scholars stood out as the youngest competitors in the tournament, demonstrating remarkable skill, determination, and composure well beyond their years. To also further frame this monumental event for our debate team, this was their very first-time public speaking, coupled with being in a new environment. This is no small feat as we have elementary scholars boldly undertaking something that adults still attempt to conquer.
The debate topic challenged scholars to consider a timely and very relatable issue: Should public schools in the United States ban junk food? Each Team competed across three structured rounds, including an affirmative or negative then the opposing-side round closing with an open-format round to test adaptability.
Each of our five teams consisted of three scholars, with one speaker per team to present twice during the competition. Speakers were in rotation to give as many scholars as possible a chance. The event began at 9:00 a.m. and ran until 4:00 p.m., with finalist teams advancing to a championship round later in the day.
Our scholars, fully fitted with their research packets, were required to summarize key points and connect arguments to real-life school experiences, strengthening both their processing and communication skills.
“What stood out most was our scholars’ ability to adapt,” their coach Ms. Joseph noted. “They listened carefully, adjusted their arguments, and responded in real time thoughtfully during crossfire rounds.”
During these crossfire segments, scholars demonstrated confidence and quick thinking as they responded to unanticipated questions. Despite initial nerves, participants spoke clearly, held themselves to high standards, and performed exceptionally well under pressure.
While many scholars initially opposed banning junk food playfully reflecting their age, citing personal preferences and limited snack access at home. Yet they were able to argue against both sides effectively, showing maturity and flexibility in their reasoning. Exemplary of how well South Shore Charter School prepares scholars.
The Debate team displayed the school’s core value of GRIT, by being great at resilience, Integrity, and Tenacity. They impressively remained determined throughout the long and demanding day. By the end of the tournament, scholars were duly exhausted but proud, celebrating their growth and accomplishments.
Educators and coaches played a key role in maintaining morale and encouraging scholars. We were proud to have our leaders on site, particularly our Executive Director, Dermoth Mattison. He kept the motivation high and consistently reinforced the scholars of how well they presented themselves. He encouraged them to be kind to themselves, to nurture the experience and to always celebrate their wins. In his own words, “This was more than just a competition, this is a learning experience, and our scholars represented themselves and their school with confidence and integrity.”
With a successful debut at the event, the South Shore Charter School Debate Team is already looking ahead with excitement and determination for next year’s competition. This attitude redefines winning; it’s not reflected in the medal or the trophy; it’s the generative possibilities that ignited confidence in our scholars that is inextinguishable. Look up to the sky and you will see South Shore Charter School as a rising star.
