KIPP Students Excel at Statewide Debate Tournament
More than 20 middle schools from across Louisiana recently gathered at KIPP Morial for a spirited debate tournament that challenged students to think on their feet, back up their claims with evidence, and engage respectfully with opposing views.
Three KIPP New Orleans Schools—KIPP Morial, KIPP East, and KIPP Central City—took the stage with 13 students from grades 5 through 8, demonstrating their commitment to KIPP’s bold promise of building exceptional schools that inspire curiosity, learning, and growth. These young debaters showcased not only their reasoning skills but also the collaborative spirit that has been a cornerstone of KIPP’s 20-year legacy.
The tournament was organized by Ryan McBride, who leads the Tulane Middle School Debate program, with support from Tulane University and Tulane debate students. Their collaboration underscores KIPP’s dedication to empowering educators and providing students with opportunities to excel beyond the classroom.
“Our students prepared diligently,” Markuisha Patton, KIPP Morial’s Debate Coach said. “We’re proud of the confidence and curiosity they brought to the competition, which truly showcases their talents.”
As KIPP New Orleans Schools celebrates 20 years of growing up together with students, families, and the city, the results of this tournament reflect the network’s pillars. From its inception, KIPP has made a bold promise to build exceptional schools that inspire curiosity, learning, and growth. Events like this debate tournament highlight how students are using their voices, refining their thinking, and preparing to create a better tomorrow for themselves and New Orleans.
The students debated topics that pushed them to think beyond classroom boundaries: Was math discovered or invented? Should the United States ban non-therapeutic human genetic engineering? Should the voting age be lowered? And is fiction truly better than nonfiction? With each round, teams had to be ready to argue either side, testing both their depth of research and their ability to adapt quickly under pressure.
Preparation wasn’t taken lightly. KIPP Morial’s team, for example, practiced at least three days a week, even holding virtual sessions during Thanksgiving break. It was time well spent. Judges evaluated students not just on the strength of their arguments, but also on how thoroughly they supported their points with evidence, how respectfully they engaged with opponents, and how effectively they communicated their ideas to an audience.
The results showcased the power of hard work and collaboration. Five KIPP Morial students claimed the top five speaking awards: Mya Blanche (1st place), Ronnie Stevenson (2nd), Imai Bethley (3rd), Rynell Lumar (4th), and Taden Andrews (5th). Their achievements reflected both individual dedication and the strong network of support around them—from their peers and coaches to mentors at Tulane University, who helped organize the event.
“We want students to emerge not only as strong debaters, but also as confident thinkers who can approach complex issues with discipline and care,” Patton added.
For KIPP New Orleans Schools, this tournament was about more than trophies. Debate aligns closely with the network’s mission: developing critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills that prepare students for success in high school, college, and beyond. It’s a chance for young scholars to learn how to research thoroughly, question assumptions, and listen actively—valuable skills that translate into their academic work and personal growth.
“This experience helps our students see themselves as leaders, thinkers, and contributors to their communities,” said Patton. “They’re building the habits of mind that will serve them well throughout their lives.”
As the final rounds concluded and the top speakers were announced, it was clear that these middle school debaters had gained more than just points on a score sheet. They left with a sense of accomplishment, newfound confidence, and the knowledge that their voices carry weight—both on the stage and in the world they’re growing up to shape.