Sometimes people incorrectly assume that younger students are not ready for or aware of issues in our society. The truth is, they see and hear what is going on but don’t always have the space to process and share their opinions. Debate is a perfect vehicle for that!
 
Drawing from my background as both a licensed clinical social worker and an award-winning debate coach of a nationally ranked team, I created this four-part lesson plan that doesn’t assume previous experience with debate or knowledge of the topic of policing. Combining social-emotional activities, social science education and debate practice, this module prepares students to have an evidence-based, culturally competent and productive debates about whether police budgets should be increased or decreased in just four forty-five minute sessions.