Hopkins School District #270

Debate at Hopkins High School has a long history and tradition of excellence spanning more than 60 years. Hopkins' debate program is successful on both a regional and national level. In recent years, students have qualified to compete in the Minnesota State Tournament and the National Tournament of Champions, and experienced consistent success at other major debate competitions throughout the country.

Students participate in Lincoln-Douglas debate, which focuses on taking a proposition about the justness or moral permissibility of a particular social practice or institution, and debating whether it is true or false. Students debate both sides of the resolution (each topic is debated for about two months), and utilize reasoned arguments and research to demonstrate the validity of their positions on the topic. They attend three to four practices a week and tournaments on weekends from September through January.

The benefits of participating in high school debate are enormous. The skill set that debate teaches includes the ability to think rigorously and critically, to write and speak clearly and persuasively, to research effectively, and to comprehend advanced academic literature. Not surprisingly, these skills translate into a significant academic and occupational achievement. At Hopkins, debaters focus on maintaining a team first approach, teaching and developing character, and having fun while doing it.