submitted by froehlic@augsburg.edu
The Minnesota Urban Debate League, a program in Augsburg University, is facing a major challenge to debate in St. Paul: a $107 million district deficit and looming budget cuts for debate. That puts 400 middle and high school students’ ability to debate at risk, meaning they’ll miss out on the crucial benefits debate provides. They deserve the same chance for academic growth, social and emotional learning, and leadership skills that their peers in well-resourced suburban schools, private schools, and other local districts receive through debate!
Our sincere thanks to Vineeta Sawkar for hosting our Executive Director, Amy Cram Helwich, on WCCO Radio to discuss our #SaveSPPSDebate campaign.
Please take 5 minutes to hear why debate’s in jeopardy in Saint Paul, and why it matters:
What You Can Do To Help:
Help fight debate funding cuts! We’ve provided talking points, templates, contacts, and social media images you can use at this link – but remember, your personal testimony about why debate matters in your neighborhood is the most effective. If you’ve personally benefited from debate, volunteered with our program, or simply value our work, please join us in advocating to #SaveSPPSDebate.
Find advocacy resources here:
https://mailchi.mp/augsburg/save-debate-4763025