When Ella Lee first joined Speech & Debate at Ghidotti Early College High School, she was chasing a passion that sparked way back in sixth grade. “I always loved arguing,” Ella laughed, “but once I got a taste of crafting arguments, researching, and building speeches in my history classes, I was hooked.”
Now a seasoned competitor, Ella reflects on how the program has shaped her both academically and personally. “It’s made me so much more open-minded and analytical,” she shared. “I honestly feel smarter — not just in school, but in how I look at the world.” But for Ella, the most meaningful change was finding a community. “I still remember connecting with Coach Goldberg years older than me about queer theory. It was this moment where I realized this activity welcomes all of who you are — it validates you.”
Through Speech & Debate, Ella has picked up skills she uses far beyond the classroom. “It’s not just that I’m more confident — I know how to research, evaluate arguments, and present ideas persuasively,” she said. Recently, Ella put those skills to the test speaking out at a school board meeting after learning her district planned to cut funding for her school. “I wasn’t intimidated. I knew how to craft my argument and back it up with research — honestly, I felt like I out-researched the school board.”
Ella’s journey also led her to success outside of tournaments, including a recent Rotary Club speech competition where she addressed homelessness in her community. “It was amazing to see how easily the skills from debate transferred,” she said. “I didn’t even need my notecards — Speech & Debate teaches you how to trust your knowledge and just finish the sentence.”
When asked what surprised her most about Speech & Debate, Ella smiled. “How much growth comes from just doing it — it’s not about talent. The more you practice, the better you get. One day, you realize you’re standing up and giving a speech without even thinking twice.”
Ella’s story is a reminder of the power of Speech & Debate — building not only sharp thinkers but courageous leaders ready to make their voices heard.
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