Our Mission

“Not just increasing accessibility in debate, but opening avenues to success.”

High school National Circuit debate is plagued by the persistent problem of inclusivity. Due to the incredibly technical and nuanced nature of the activity, it is very difficult to learn circuit debate without an established team or a comprehensive support system. Underprivileged debaters are frequently left in a state of gridlock, unable to improve their skills and with nobody to turn to for help. This is only compounded by the high costs of participation and an overall lack of a welcoming community. In other words, debate is systematically built against the underdog. 

Thus, it is no surprise that every year and at every National Circuit tournament, the same schools and teams are the ones winning. Low income and other disadvantaged debaters are all but pushed out. 

We hope to help remedy this crisis. Circuit Skillbuilder offers in-depth curriculum in the form of video lessons that teach the essential skills of high level competition and other free resources. Moreover, we provide free but incredibly talented coaches that help with regular improvement, serving as a much needed support system. We also aim to foster a friendly community through our services and social platforms, breaking down the alienation that many fledging debaters feel. As we expand, we hope to offer scholarships to fund promising debaters, practice tournaments, services in different events, and more, all in the name of ensuring an equitable playing field for everyone. 

Our Values

Whether you have a large debate program or a team with just a handful of members, we believe that everyone deserves an equal chance to succeed at the highest level of debate.

We envision a reality high school National Circuit debate is truly open and inviting to all, not just to those who were privileged enough to have it opened for them.

In doing so, we believe that the best way to learn is through a friendly community environment filled with individual improvement, mentorship, and peer practice and competition. We also believe that giving back and service are essential to the growth of not just debate as an activity, but to each individual as well. Thus, we encourage an environment where knowledge and guidance are passed down openly and eagerly.