Magally Stransky

2023 - Current

Coach Stransky is not your stereotypical Barbie; she has a flair for language and education. She stands as an expert English teacher in Middle School, boasting an impressive academic journey. Having excelled through her Bachelor's degree in Interpretation at the Instituto Superior de Intérpretes y Traductores, Magally is a linguistic maestro. Magally's dedication to her craft has not only helped her students excel but has also contributed to enhancing communication across borders, making her a notable interpreter and translator. Magally is a public speaking powerhouse ready to conquer the world.

 

Roberto Jones

2017 - Current

For Coach Jones hopes that students embrace the narratives that make them unique and use their voices to unleash them into the world. Stories matter. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Political Science, International Relations, and Art History from the honors program at the College of Charleston in South Carolina. He also earned a Master's in Multidisciplinary Studies from the State University of New York and a Master's in Mexico-United States Studies from the National Autonomous University of Mexico. His research interests revolve around analyzing politics, art, and contemporary society through various perspectives, particularly within the discipline of Political Art which he is now pursuing in a PhD program. He has taught most of the Humanities courses in the Upper School with his favorites being Global Connections, IB Business, and AP Art History. 

 

 

Arantza Asali

2019 - 2020

Teachers used to complain about how much Coach Asali talked in class, and she ended up becoming a Championship-winning communicator. She believes most things can be achieved through efficient messaging. From building a network and selling a product, to growing a whole business from nothing, or teaching people to do difficult things - the story you transmit and how you do it is at the heart of success. Coach Asali had the pleasure of working alongside entrepreneurs and start-ups, historic organisations, and inspiring talent in a variety of fields. She enjoys collaborating with unique individuals, and getting to hear their stories. She is passionate about equity and sustainability. After gaining a masters degree in Gender Studies, she now works to help bring these values to people's professional lives.

 

 

Richard Kamm

2015 - 2018

Coach Richard Kamm is a seasoned professional with a multifaceted background that underscores his dedication to service and education. Presently contributing his expertise at the US Department of State, his career is anchored in a deep-rooted commitment to law and governance. Richard is an alumnus of the American University in Washington, where he honed his legal acumen through dedicated studies in Law. Prior to his legal pursuits, he earned a Bachelor's degree in Politics & Government from the University of Puget Sound, showcasing his passion for understanding the mechanisms that drive society. Beyond his professional achievements, Richard wears the badge of a proud father with honor, a role that epitomizes his nurturing and mentorship. Notably, his journey includes a stint as an esteemed educator, where he imparted knowledge and values to countless students, leaving an indelible mark on their academic and personal growth.

 

 

Sofia Ruiz

2016 - 2018

Coach Sofia Ruiz, a true virtuoso in the world of make-believe, crafts stories and breathes life into characters, embodying the magic of theater and storytelling. As a dynamic actor, adept writer, prolific producer, and engaging podcaster, Sofia's journey in the realm of creativity is a vibrant tapestry. She pursued her passion for the performing arts by earning a Bachelors of Arts in Theater and Dance from the University of Texas at Austin, where her love for the craft deepened. Building upon this foundation, she further refined her skills and artistic vision, attaining a Master of Fine Arts from the esteemed University of Georgia. Armed with a wealth of knowledge and an unyielding passion for her craft, Sofia continues to illuminate the stage and airwaves, captivating audiences and sharing narratives that resonate with the human experience.

 

 

Mark Webber

2010 - 2016

Coach Mark Webber embodies a lifetime dedicated to education and the arts, with a journey that has taken him across continents. Hailing from Texas, he embarked on a remarkable 23-year teaching career specializing in Theatre, Debate, and Public Speaking. This passion for education led him to various corners of the globe, including Venezuela, Malaysia, Sudan, and Mexico, before finally settling in Colombia. Mark's expertise and dedication shine through in his role as an international teacher, consultant, and Fine Arts Administrator, leaving an indelible mark on the educational landscape. Mark is a true pioneer, founding and nurturing debating leagues in each country he has worked, reflecting his deep-rooted commitment to coaching and fostering debate on an international stage. His achievements include steering Team Sudan (2010) and Team Mexico (2011-2017) to victory at the World Schools Debating Championships, where his debaters consistently garnered top honors. While his voice might make some debaters very anxious, and his rigor is unparalleled, he left an enduring mark at ASF, influencing and inspiring generations of young minds in the art of debate.

Speech and Debate is an enriching extracurricular activity where students engage in competitive public speaking and argumentation. As representatives of ASF, students compete in various events, each offering a unique platform to sharpen their communication and critical thinking skills.

 

Diverse Debate Styles

World Schools Style

Combining elements of both prepared and impromptu debating, teams of three to five members engage in thought-provoking debates on a wide range of social, political, and economic issues.

 

British Parliament Style (BP Debate)

In this format, two teams of two speakers each represent the government and opposition sides of a motion. The debate is structured into four speeches, each lasting seven minutes.

 

Policy Debate

Delving into policy issues, this format involves in-depth research, with teams advocating for or against a specific policy proposal.

 

Lincoln-Douglas Debate

Focusing on values and philosophical questions, this one-on-one debate style encourages eloquent argumentation and ethical considerations.

 

 

Public Speaking Competitions

In addition to debates, we participate in public speaking competitions, where individuals present prepared or impromptu speeches. This provides an avenue to showcase public speaking skills, including engaging an audience, delivering a clear and persuasive message, and utilizing effective communication techniques.

 

Forensic Oratory

Forensic Oratory focuses on the past and aims to determine justice or injustice in actions that have taken place. Often used in legal settings, it persuades a jury or audience about the guilt or innocence of a person.

 

Deliberative Oratory

Deliberative Oratory pertains to the present and concerns future actions. Commonly used in legislative or political settings, it persuades or dissuades an audience from taking specific actions or adopting certain policies.

 

Demonstrative Oratory

Demonstrative Oratory focuses on the present and concerns values and beliefs. It aims to inspire, uplift, and motivate the audience, often emphasizing moral or ethical principles.

 

Extemporaneous Speaking

Extemporaneous Speaking involves delivering a speech without extensive preparation. The speaker is given a limited amount of time to prepare a speech on a given topic before delivering it to the audience.

 

Impromptu Speaking

Impromptu Speaking involves delivering a speech on a topic without any prior preparation or planning. The speaker must rely on their ability to think on their feet and communicate effectively.

 

Declamation

Declamation involves delivering a speech that has been previously delivered by another person. The speaker must convey the original speaker's emotions, style, and intent.

 

Participation in speech and debate nurtures self-confidence, enhances public speaking proficiency, and fosters leadership qualities, all of which are transferable to many facets of life and are invaluable as you pursue your academic and professional aspirations.

Joining the ASF Speech & Debate Team is an investment in your personal and academic development. Here's why you should consider becoming part of our dynamic community:

 

• Critical Thinking: Enhance your ability to think critically, analyze complex issues, and construct compelling arguments.
• Effective Communication: Develop excellent communication skills, vital for presentations, discussions, and everyday interactions.
• Leadership: Cultivate leadership abilities that are invaluable in academic, professional, and personal pursuits.
• Global Citizenship: Gain a deeper understanding of global issues and become an informed and engaged global citizen.
• Friendship: Forge lasting friendships and connections with like-minded individuals who share your passion.

 

The Power of Oratory Skills

 

Oratory skills acquired through participation in speech and debate are essential for effective communication in various personal and professional contexts. Here are some examples of where oratory skills can make a difference:

 

• Career Advancement: Persuasive presentation and communication abilities can open doors to promotions and new opportunities.
• Business Success: Strong oratory skills are crucial for making compelling presentations to investors, clients, or colleagues.
• Political Influence: In politics, oratory skills can sway voters and inspire change.
• Leadership Effectiveness: Leaders who speak confidently and persuasively gain trust and respect.
• Advocacy: Oratory skills are vital for those advocating for social justice, environmental causes, or other issues.
• Improving Writing: Public speaking skills can enhance written communication, such as in essays and research papers.

 

Participation in speech and debate nurtures self-confidence, enhances public speaking proficiency, and fosters leadership qualities, all of which are transferable to many facets of life and are invaluable as you pursue your academic and professional aspirations.

The ideal speech and debate team member possesses a diverse set of skills and qualities crucial for excelling in a successful speech and debate program, including:

• Strong Communication Skills: Aspiring to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

• Knowledgeable about Speech and Debate: Understanding speech and debate formats, rules, and techniques.

• Open-mindedness: Willingness to listen to different perspectives and embrace new ideas.

• Positive Attitude: Maintaining a positive and optimistic outlook, even in challenging situations.

• Team Player: Demonstrating collaboration and cooperation with teammates to achieve common goals.

• Dedication: Committing to attend meetings, practices, and investing time and effort for competition preparation.

• Strong Work Ethic: Willingness to research, prepare, and practice speeches and debates.

• Confidence: Believing in one's abilities, taking risks, and stepping out of the comfort zone.

• Good Sportsmanship: Displaying respect and good sportsmanship, win or lose, towards opponents and judges.

In addition to embodying the traits of an ideal team member, an exemplary debate captain showcases additional skills and qualities imperative for leading a successful debate team:

• Strong Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication with team members, coaches, and other stakeholders.

• Knowledgeable about Debate: In-depth understanding of debate formats, rules, and techniques to guide and train team members.

• Leadership Skills: Leading by example and inspiring team members to work hard and achieve their objectives.

• Time Management Skills: Effective time management and task prioritization to ensure thorough preparation for tournaments and events.

• Team Player: Collaborating with team members and stakeholders, handling conflicts constructively and respectfully.

• Passion for Debate: A deep-rooted passion for debate, inspiring and instilling the same passion in team members.

• Organizational Skills: Maintaining organization and attention to detail in managing schedules, events, and important information.

 

Debate captains should maintain professional and respectful interactions with debate coaches. Effective communication involves providing progress updates, seeking necessary support, and addressing concerns or issues promptly. They should embrace feedback, work collaboratively, and proactively seek opportunities for personal and team growth.

General Tips for Success

• Building a Strong Foundation:
  • Building a solid foundation in Speech & Debate involves PRACTICE. You need to take your own voice and your argument development seriously and maintain committed to developing your skills and growing as an orator. 
• Staying Informed with Reliable News:
  • Reliable news sources are crucial for staying informed and developing a well-rounded understanding of current events. With this, you are able to build a repertoire of evidence that will allow you to back up any and all arguments.