Overview
The Chicago Debate League (CDL) is one of the premier citywide academic competitions for Chicago high school and middle school students.
The CDL has produced some of the most accomplished students in the Urban Debate Network. This year, we expect to have more than 40 high schools actively participating, with more than 60 regular debate coaches among the Chicago public high school teaching faculty and more than 500 CPS students competing at interscholastic tournaments across the city.
The CDL has the support of area law firms, businesses, community non-profit agencies, and universities. More than 300 Chicago-area volunteers will support the operation this season. The CDL is the nation’s second oldest Urban Debate League and the nation’s largest.
Goals
- Teach students how to formulate informed opinions and how to communicate them effectively
- Develop student leadership skills
- Facilitate organized debate activities
Program Benefits
- Narrow the achievement gap and enhances academic achievement
- Strengthen critical thinking
- Increase college matriculation rates
- Strengthen self-esteem
- Teach students how to resolve conflict
Resources
Learn more about the local and national debate leagues.
