Why It Matters:

Arkansas students often face challenges such as limited access to certain debate styles (e.g., Policy, World Schools, or Declamation) and fewer connections within the speech and debate community. Out-of-state camps exist but are often prohibitively expensive and far away.

Our virtual camp bridges this gap by creating affordable, high-quality opportunities for Arkansas students to learn, grow, and connect. It fosters a stronger sense of community, provides mentorship, and equips students with resources typically only available to "national circuit" competitors—all from the comfort of home.

Share youR Interest

If you have students who are interested in participating in Camp ACTAA as learners, we encourage you to share the opportunity with them! Whether they’re new to speech and debate or simply curious about trying a new event or connecting with peers across the state, Camp ACTAA offers a supportive and engaging environment to learn and grow. Students will have the chance to attend workshops, watch demo rounds, and interact with experienced coaches and student mentors. To express interest and receive more information as it becomes available, students should complete the Camp ACTAA Student Interest Form.

Student Interest Form

Become a camp instructor

Students with experience in speech and debate who are passionate about giving back and helping others grow are encouraged to apply to serve as student-instructors for Camp ACTAA. This is a unique opportunity to take on a leadership role, collaborate with peers and coaches, and help shape the learning experience for novice and middle school competitors across the state. Student-instructors will assist in teaching, mentoring, and possibly leading demo rounds, while gaining valuable experience in communication, organization, and instruction. To apply, please complete the Camp ACTAA Student Instructor Application.

Student Instructor Application

Key Features of the Camp

Duration:

1-2 weeks, tentatively in late June to early July.

Target Audience:

• Novices looking for a solid start.
• Students interested in exploring new debate styles or speech events.
• High school and possibly junior high students (if coaches approve).

Location:

Online via Zoom or Google Meet.

What Students Can Expect

Instructors set flexible 30-minute to 1-hour slots throughout the week to answer student questions in small, casual groups. This ensures maximum flexibility for instructors and students alike.

Engaging Lectures:

Focused sessions on specific events (like Extemp or Interp) or skills (like cross-examination or impromptu speaking). Lectures will include interactive components like drills and exercises to keep students engaged.

Demo Rounds & Performances:

Watch top competitors demonstrate their craft, whether it’s a polished Forensics piece or a strategic debate round. Students can ask questions and get insights from these performances.

Practice Rounds with Feedback:

• Forensics: Students can share excerpts or full performances for feedback.
• Debate: Participate in rounds and receive constructive critiques. Shorter formats like IPDA may also be used for efficiency.

What Makes This Camp Unique?

• Focus on Arkansas Students: Developed by Arkansas, for Arkansas, addressing local challenges and fostering a sense of statewide community.
• Affordable Accessibility: A free or low-cost option removes financial barriers that often exclude students from such opportunities.
• Comprehensive Offerings: Covers events that students typically don’t have access to, including Policy, Declamation, and World Schools.
• Flexible Participation: Students can customize their schedules, focusing only on what interests them.

How It Will Work

Instructor Selection:

• Open to ASC-placing, Nats/TOC-qualifying high school or college students, and coaches.
• Instructors will apply in February or March and create content (like slideshows) for review by ACTAA leadership.

Student Sign-Up:

• Registrations open in April/May, with promotional materials shared widely.

Camp Resources:

• Lectures and resources will be hosted on platforms like Google Classroom for easy access.
• Materials created by instructors may also be distributed afterward or posted on the ACTAA website.

Scheduling:

• A detailed schedule (e.g., via Google Calendar) will ensure clear communication.
• Lectures and demos will be offered multiple times when possible to accommodate busy student schedules.

Promotions:

• Spread the word through ACTAA’s website, Instagram, and email announcements to schools.