Increased college access
Debate is one of the most rigorous academic programs to prepare students for college success. That is why every college offers a debate program. Debate skills of researching, public speaking, reading, writing, listening, note taking and teamwork are essential college skills. Debate topics from philosophy to political science to ethnic studies to economics are college level subjects. As a result, debaters are more likely to be accepted to college and more likely to graduate from college than their peers. The New York City Urban Debate League an approved service provider for the College Access for All Initiative (CA4A). College Access for All is a component of New York City’s Equity and Excellence Initiative. The project is expected to develop the capacity of all NYC high schools to deliver high-quality College and career planning and significantly raise the numbers of students who graduate ready for postsecondary education. College Access for All underscores the City’s commitment to strengthening college access for all students by ensuring that all students graduate with a postsecondary plan and resources to enact that plan.