Hallsville High School

Speech and Debate Team

2019-2020

STUDENT HANDBOOK

Mr. Chris Dickson, Director of Speech & Debate

2019-2020

Speech and Debate Team Goals

We will be successful.

We will engage families and the community as active partners in our team.

We will provide a safe environment.

We will maximize all resources. We will compete in every Speech and Debate main event – filling every possible slot with high-achieving student competitors.

We will attend practice tournaments in the Fall and Spring to prepare students appropriately for District, Regional, State and National level tournaments.

We will win and place 1st as a team in District.

We will place as one of the top 3 overall speech and debate teams at Region.

We will place as one of the top 5 overall speech and debate teams in 5A State.

We will work hard to sweep district competition in all speech and debate events: advancing to the UIL Regional Championships.

We will have a minimum of 8 speech and debate event entries advance to the UIL State Championships.

We will have a minimum of 5 students named medal winners (top 6) at the UIL State Championships.

We will have a minimum of 2 students named UIL Regional Champions.

We will have a minimum of 1 student named UIL State Champion.

We will have a minimum of 2 students advance to the NSDA National Tournament: a minimum of one will rank in the top 30 in the nation.

2019-2020

UIL Speech and Debate Tournament Calendar

The tournament calendar is posted on this page and online. You may access it online by visiting Mr. Dickson’s teacher webpage on the main Hallsville High School website. Schedule is subject to change with notice.

DATE MEET DESCRIPTION LOCATION ******************************************************************************

2019 Sept 7 Student Activity Conference / TJC Tyler Sept 14 All Saints TFA Tyler Sept 28 Wylie/North Lamar TFA Wylie Oct 12 Prosper TFA Prosper Oct 26 Hallsville UIL Hallsville Nov 2 Lindale UIL Lindale Nov 9 Whitehouse UIL Whitehouse Nov ?? UIL Congressional Debate Region TBD Nov 16 Mt. Pleasant TFA Mt. Pleasant Dec 7 Carthage UIL Carthage Dec 14 Hallsville TFA Hallsville Dec 21 Sachse TFA Sachse 2020

Jan 10-11 Pine Tree UIL Longview Jan 13-15 UIL Congressional Debate State Austin

Jan 17-18 Lindale UIL Lindale

Jan 24-25(Travel Trip) TBD TBD

Jan 30 UIL CX Debate District - SFA Nacogdoches Feb 1 Van TFA Van Feb 15 Hallsville UIL Tournament of Hearts Hallsville Feb 20-22 NSDA – National Qualifier TBD Mar 4-7 TFA State El Paso Mar 19-21 UIL CX Debate State Austin Mar 27-28 UIL Academic District Whitehouse April 16-18 UIL Academic Regional Tournament Prosper May 26-28 UIL State Speech Austin June 13-20 NSDA Nationals Albuquerque, NM

WHY SPEECH AND DEBATE?

Opening doors, changing lives

From the founding fathers to the current explosion of online and social media technologies, the principles of open debate have been the life blood of our democracy, making society stronger by transforming policies, guiding public opinion, and casting light on injustice.

Today, it’s more crucial than ever that our youth develop the skills to speak powerfully and persuasively in front of an audience as well as learn to think critically, explore all sides of an issue, and formulate evidence-based, rock-solid points of view.

Beyond the improvements in their academic performance that prepare them to excel in college, speech and debate students change in ways that influence every aspect of their lives. It gives them the social and academic confidence they need to grow as individuals, achieve educational goals, pursue meaningful work, and improve the lives of others—and our world.

Speech and debate gives students an edge

Speech and debate students have a significant edge in college admissions.

Underperforming students…show dramatic improvements through participation in speech and debate competitions.

Speech and debate participation provides real cognitive and behavioral outcomes in the following areas:

o Improving reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills o Improving critical thinking skills o Fostering intellectual curiosity o Increasing motivation o Increasing engagement—both at-risk and gifted students engage more and act out as

much as 50% less

Speech and debate creates enduring transformation in teens, setting them on a path that can lead them in amazing new directions. Check out all the research that proves the ability of speech and debate to change lives: http://www.speechanddebate.org/aspx/nav.aspx?navid=201&pnavid=37

Consider the people who got their start as student members of their respective Speech and Debate teams: Supreme Court Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Stephen Breyer, and Samuel Alito; media visionaries Oprah Winfrey and Ted Turner; actors Brad Pitt and Renee Zellweger; TV personalities Stephen Colbert and Tom Lennon; and Senators Richard Lugar, Russ Feingold, and William Frist.

The skills cultivated through speech and debate events are the very same skills teachers seek to develop in their students, as outlined by the curricular standards that have been adopted by a variety of professional organizations. Read more about how speech and debate education meets the requirements of the Common Core State Standards:

1. http://www.speechanddebate.org/aspx/nav.aspx?navid=207&pnavid=206 2. http://www.uiltexas.org/files/academics/teks/DebateTEKS.pdf 3. http://www.uiltexas.org/files/academics/teks/ExtempTEKS.pdf 4. http://www.uiltexas.org/files/academics/teks/InterpTEKS.pdf

Sources: "Why Speech & Debate." : Speech, Debate: National Speech & Debate Association. N.p., n.d. Web. 15 July 2014. / “UIL Academic Contests & TEKS." — University Interscholastic League (UIL). N.p., n.d. Web. 15 July 2014.

WHY THIS HANDBOOK?

A speech and debate program is a multifaceted educational endeavor involving students, parents, and teachers in the task of fostering students’ communication, thinking and performance skills. It thus involves a lot of different people and efforts.

Once you have read these materials, students (and parents) may think, “Wow, so many rules and explanations of what speech and debate actually is and how the team functions, is this too complicated?” We think not. This is an attempt to answer some of the inevitable questions that will arise from participating in debate. Our hope is that each student develops a productive, professional relationship with his/her coaches. Keeping that in mind, this handbook is an attempt to orient you to the world of competitive forensics as it exists at Hallsville High School. It also serves a dual purpose: first, to avoid problems before they arise; second, to provide a basic explanation of what the world of competitive debate looks like. Many of the rules will seem like common sense – and common sense is a great default position when you are in doubt. However, none of us has an identical view of what comprises “common sense.” In particular, for our novice (first year) competitors, many of the things in this book will be new. As we move forward, reviewing some ideas from past years, and infusing a few new ones as well, seems to be in order.

This handbook is where we begin.

DISCLAIMER

This handbook is not meant to discourage participation with the Hallsville Speech and Debate Team. It is merely meant to give you all of my rules and guidelines in advance. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me or set up a face-to-face appointment.

All of these rules and guidelines will always be at the discretion of HHS coaches.

COMPETITION EVENTS

It is my philosophy that forensic students should be well-rounded individuals capable of competing in

a variety of events. Each event offers a different, but valuable skill-set that will only aide students in

becoming the best possible competitor with the most opportunities for success.

Debate – There are four unique debate events that we will participate in. Each student is expected to

learn the basics of all of the forms before choosing their primary debate event.

1. Policy Debate – A two-on-two (team) debate event that asks students to advocate policies

pertaining to a national resolution that will be debated for the entire year. This year, that

resolution is The United States federal government should substantially reduce Direct

Commercial Sales and/or Foreign Military Sales of arms from the United States. While

complex, with lots of terminology and research requirements, this type of debate gives students

hands-on experience in analyzing the cost benefit analysis of certain policies and how they

interact with others. This is also sometimes called Cross-Examination Debate.

2. Lincoln-Douglas Debate – A one-on-one (individual) debate event that asks students to ponder

the ethical and moral implications of a resolution. Resolutions for Lincoln-Douglas debate

change either every semester (UIL) or every two months (TFA) but always generally reflect the

values that we place in society. This type of debate gives students opportunities to consider

practicality and philosophy in the same event. This is also sometimes called Value Debate.

3. Public-Forum Debate – A two-on-two (team) debate event that asks students to consider the

controversial nature of current topics that affect society. Resolutions for this event change

every month, but will generally always be a very two-sided controversial topic. This type of

debate is unique in that it frowns upon lots of jargon or stylized language. It is recommended

that students do not choose this as a primary debate event, but as a fun event to occasionally do

at specific tournaments. It was formerly called Controversy Debate.

4. Congressional Debate – This type of debate is most unlike the others. Congressional debate

asks high school students to simulate a debate environment similar to the United States

Congress. Here, students will debate multiple resolutions or bills throughout the course of a

legislative session. Although this is a one-person debate event, it also uniquely lends itself to a

team attitude. In Hallsville, every debate student will be required to contribute to the

Congressional Debate topics and although this is not recommended as a primary debate event,

it is an excellent forum for improving your speaking and critical thinking skills. This is also

sometimes called Student Congress.

Speech – There are two main speech events that we will participate in. Each student is expected to

learn the basics of both before choosing their primary speech event. However, it is encouraged that

students pick up both speech events.

1. Extemporaneous Speaking – In this event, students will receive 30 minutes preparation

time to create an original seven minute maximum speech regarding a current

event. Students are expected to include research (that is pre-done by whole team and

organized into files) and other basic aspects of rhetoric. There are two different divisions of

extemporaneous speaking: foreign and domestic (or international and United States), where

the topic is differentiated by the scope of who it affects; and informative and persuasive,

where the topic is differentiated by how the speaker is expected to analyze it.

2. Original Oratory and Informative – In this event, students will write an original speech

ahead of time, memorize it, and perform it for a judge (in 10 minutes or less). Original

oratory is one of my favorite events because it combines speaking skills with writing skills

and entertaining skills. The best way for me to describe oratory is to say that is supposed to

be a speech that is entertaining in nature. For 10 minutes, students get to highlight a

problem in society (typically a problem of humanity like taking things for granted, rather

than a global problem like disease and health care), and share their original perspective on it

while also detailing a potential solution to the problem.

Interpretation – These events are suggested for students who have a passion for theatre or

acting. While it is recommended that each student pick up at least one interpretation event, students

who wish to primarily pursue interpretation events may wish to compete in many more.

1. Dramatic Interpretation – Students have 10 minutes to take a memorized dramatic

selection (typically a book or play) and present it to the judge. While it is considered

interpretation rather than acting, many of the same skill sets are transferred.

2. Humorous Interpretation – The rules for humorous are the same as dramatic, just with a

more humorous memorized selection. Successful HI’s often take typical stories but bring

them to life with characterizations, voices, sound effects, and physical blocking. While this

is true for dramatic interpretation as well, it is absolutely true for humorous interpretation.

3. Duo Interpretation – The rules for duo are the same for humorous and dramatic, except

that you get a partner and can choose a piece that is either humorous, dramatic, or a

combination of both. While working with your partner, you are never allowed to have

direct eye contact or physical contact with them during the scene. While this seems

difficult, it allows students to create very creative visual images.

4. Duet Acting – This is most similar to Duo Interpretation. Similarities include that you are

to work with a partner to perform a memorized selection that is either humorous, dramatic,

or a combination of both. Differences are that you are allowed to have direct eye and

physical contact and you receive the use of two chairs as props. You also receive 12

minutes to complete your performance.

5. Prose Interpretation – This event asks students to do a “reading” of prose material. The

material may be humorous, dramatic, or a combination of both. Students may combine

multiple pieces that link with a common theme or stick to one selection. For some circuits

of competition, students will be expected to have two separate pieces to perform. While

this is not memorized and students have a short notebook with them at all times, it is best to

have it memorized so that you can focus more on making the piece more dynamic. The

maximum time is seven minutes.

6. Poetry Interpretation – The rules for poetry are the same as prose, just with the selection

being that of poetry rather than prose. Poetry selections can be any form of poetry (i.e. they

don’t have to rhyme) and can also be humorous or more dramatic. Some poetry selections

splice multiple pieces together (called weaving) to meet the seven minute guideline.

Miscellaneous – There are several other events which may be offered at specific tournaments. These

events are much simpler and require much less work. We will make decisions as a coaching staff as to

when students may need to participate in these events.

1. Impromptu Speaking – Students receive limited prep (less than five minutes) to prepare a

short speech (of five minutes maximum length) about an evergreen topic. Research is not

required, but students may use common knowledge or famous quotes to aide them.

2. Extemporaneous Commentary – While very similar to extemporaneous speaking, the

subtle differences are that you receive 20 minutes to prepare the usually five-minute

maximum speech. Additionally, the speech is given while sitting down. Students are

expected to emulate news commentary (opinion programs).

3. Extemporaneous Debate – This is a severely shortened debate event (takes less than 15

minutes for a whole round) with speeches of one or two minutes in length. Students are not

allowed to extensively prepare as research is not allowed (merely “common” knowledge

and logical argumentation). Topics are announced several minutes prior to the round. This

is sometimes also called Parliamentary Debate.

4. Expository – While similar to original oratory, expository asks students to inform (or

expose, rather than persuade) about a niche topic that they find interesting. Speeches are

still pre-prepared and memorized but shorter.

5. Storytelling – This event asks students to learn and memorize a story (usually one that

links to a general theme) and perform it in five minutes for a captive audience.

COMPETITION CIRCUITS

Speech and Debate competitions can be somewhat complicated because there are so many different

circuits that we compete on. As such, each circuit contains slightly different rules and regulations. As

coaches, we will go over rule differences specifically with each student before each competition so that

they are clear. This section is merely meant to give you an overview.

1. U.I.L. – The University Interscholastic League is the organization in the state of Texas that

governs all public schools in areas of athletics, music, and academics. For speech and debate,

the UIL only offers six events: Policy Debate, Lincoln-Douglas Debate, Congressional

Debate, Informative Extemporaneous Speaking, Persuasive Extemporaneous Speaking,

Prose Interpretation, and Poetry Interpretation. In UIL competitions, we compete only

against our conference size and try to advance from district to region to state. (In Policy

Debate, we advance straight from district to state.) UIL is great in that it provides excellent

scholarships to students pursuing in-state options who advance to the state meet. However,

final team sizes are limited. Students are encouraged to specialize in at least one of these

events (but hopefully two) so that they can become a member of the UIL team. Around the

beginning of February and March, I will make assessments of the team. The top three students

in each of these events will make the UIL team. I will also choose alternates. Freshmen and

novice participation in the official UIL team may be limited, but they are still encouraged to

compete. UIL also follows a conflict pattern which states that students who do Lincoln-

Douglas debate cannot compete in interpretation events.

2. T.F.A. – The Texas Forensic Association is separate from the UIL but is an alternative

governing body for forensics in the state of Texas. At every TFA tournament, students who

place receive points. Upon receiving 10 points in any event, that student has qualified for the

TFA state tournament. This is great, because again, there is no roster size limit. I can send as

many kids who qualify. TFA offers the following qualifying events: Policy Debate, Lincoln-

Douglas Debate, Public-Forum Debate, Congressional Debate, Foreign and Domestic

Extemporaneous Speaking, Original Oratory, Humorous Interpretation, Dramatic

Interpretation, Duo Interpretation, and Duet Acting. Prose and Poetry Interpretation are

offered at virtually every TFA tournament, but do not qualify for state. They are, however, a

supplemental event at TFA state. TFA state takes place in early March.

3. N.S.D.A – The National Speech and Debate Association runs the National Forensic League,

which is the international honor society for forensics. Every student who earns 25 points from

competition (explained later) becomes a member after a $30 fee is turned in to Mr. Dickson.

This is a LIFETIME membership. The NSDA is a very reputable organization that is well

known by colleges and universities and the NSDA offers several scholarships specific to its

members. We will attend two NSDA tournaments throughout the year: district and then

nationals. As qualifying events to nationals they offer the following: Policy Debate, Lincoln-

Douglas Debate, Public Forum Debate, Congressional Debate, International and United

States Extemporaneous Speaking, Original Oratory, Humorous Interpretation, Dramatic

Interpretation, and Duo Interpretation. All of the miscellaneous events plus Prose and

Poetry Interpretation are offered at the national tournament as supplemental and consolation

events. While the roster size is limited, it increases as our school earns points, which is why we

will travel to so many tournaments.

4. T.O.C. – The Tournament of Champions is a highly prestigious forensic tournament that is

offered only to the best of students. Every NFL event is also a TOC event in various forms.

Several tournaments we attend will have the distinction of being a TOC tournament. Students

who place high enough at these tournaments may earn “bids” to the actual TOC tournament. If

you win enough bids, you have qualified for the TOC. While this will always be the ultimate

goal for a forensic student, it is important to realize that only a very small fraction of

competitors will receive TOC bids, and a much smaller fraction actually qualify for the

TOC. We will always be working towards this goal, but success at these tournaments will not

define our year.

I know that understanding all of these circuits can be confusing. However, it is much easier than it

seems. What I encourage you to do is use this list of circuits and what they offer to help you determine

which events you would like to do. This will help you see which circuits cater to the event you like the

most and which tournaments you will want to attend over others.

National Speech and Debate Association Membership

After achieving 25 points (which typically happens in two-three tournaments, but can happen

quicker), a student becomes eligible for membership. $20 is the fee for a LIFETIME

membership. Every event and every competition earns students points. Of course, the better you do,

the more points you earn. As you earn more points you earn more degrees:

25 Points = Degree of Merit

75 Points = Degree of Honor (Emerald)

150 Points = Degree of Excellence (Sapphire)

250 Points = Degree of Distinction (Ruby)

500 Points = Degree of Special Distinction (Double Ruby)

750 Points = Degree of Superior Distinction (Triple Ruby)

1000 Points = Degree of Outstanding Distinction (Quadruple Ruby)

1500 Points = Degree of Premier Distinction (Quintuple Ruby)

This is the last degree, but points can be earned above and beyond this mark!

As each student earns degrees the total strength of our school increases, which gives us more entries at

the NSDA District competition!

Special awards/honors are given to top point earners at Hallsville!!!

Membership Dues - membership dues are due by the end of the 1st 9 weeks – these should be paid

separately – they go into separate accounts, so please do not place them on the same check.

a. UIL Team Dues - $25

b. Speech & Debate Team Dues - $30 - includes NSDA membership and team shirt. If there is a

demonstrated financial need, see coaches about options.

PHILOSOPHY & RULES

HALLSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL SPEECH AND DEBATE TEAM

2019 - 2020

ETHICS AND STANDARDS – Students on the Hallsville High School Speech and Debate Team are to uphold the highest ethical standards, in the classroom, in the community and in competition. Unethical behavior by one person reflects upon the entire group. An ethical reputation is difficult to earn and easy to lose. Good character is the most important thing we teach. Both attitude and behavior reflect good character. Members of the Hallsville High School Speech and Debate Team are to conduct themselves in a professional, mature manner at all times. This attitude should be reflected in case construction, as well (Example: All cards must be properly documented). Members of the Speech and Debate Team will adhere to the HHS Code of Conduct. Any problems which arise should be taken directly to the coaches.

SELF-DISCIPLINE – Hard work and self-discipline are essential to success. Talent is no substitute for dedication to the task. The only way to reach your potential is to continually strive to do your best. You will be asked to give more than your best. Talented individuals who fail to maximize their potential are wasting everyone’s time and resources. Speech and Debate require individual motivation and attention to tasks.

GRADES AND ATTITUDE – Your work outside of the Speech and Debate Team is extremely important. Team members should strive to maintain high grades and demonstrate a good attitude in other classes. You are responsible for any work missed when you attend a tournament. It is best to make arrangements with your teachers in advance. Students should be aware of state and local guidelines regarding grades, attendance and eligibility. Academics comes before Speech and Debate competition. At the same time, students should not compromise their work with the team because they are behind in their studies. We have the top students in the school – let’s keep it that way!

TEAM UNITY – Team unity is an essential part of the Hallsville High School Speech and Debate Team. We will become like a family. In order to function as a member of the team, you must accept and work with other members. We “squad” evidence, critique interpretations and help other members of the team as much as possible. Materials (supplies, label makers, research, etc.) should not be used without the permission of the owner (This includes coaches’ possessions!). Arrogance, selfishness, ingratitude and other boorish behaviors have no place on our team and will not be tolerated. Varsity members should be willing to share their expertise with the novice team members and will frequently be asked to take the role of mentor. Novices should be willing to assist varsity members as needed. You should ALWAYS cheer for HHS teams.

EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE – Speech & Debate tournaments are designed to be educational experiences. Winning is fun, but it is not the only goal. Students who are interested in winning at all costs should find another activity. We WILL win because we are prepared, have worked hard, and have learned from our mistakes. Students should continue to work on improving their own skills no matter what their record is. All research material and argument construction must meet guidelines established by the coaches.

EVENTS – The skills you learn in one event will often enhance your work in another event. ALL events are worthwhile. We want our team to have a reputation for being successful in EVERY event.

GOOD SPORTMANSHIP – The purpose of speech and debate is to promote education. Winning is desirable; however, losing is beneficial also. The student should learn from mistakes made in a round. HHS team members are NOT to argue with a judge. EVER! Good sportsmanship is to be demonstrated at all times. If the student is unable to be a good sport, the student’s status on the team will be reevaluated.

TOURNAMENT PARTICIPATION – All members of the Hallsville High School Speech and Debate Team are expected to participate in tournaments. Although you may participate in all tournaments we attend, students will be required to participate in at least 3 per year during the competition season. Failure to attend these tournaments may result in a forfeit of your spot on the Speech and Debate Team. Planning ahead always assist in avoiding conflict with other school events. However, if it becomes difficult to attend the required number of tournaments due to other school related activities and events, please communicate with the coach prior to the conflict arising so alternate arrangements can be made between the student and coach. Additionally, if a student is not dressed according to the standards (see guidelines); he/she will not be allowed to participate at that tournament and will be responsible for reimbursing any drop fees, food money, etc. for that tournament. Students who sign up for a tournament and then drop after the drop deadline will be responsible for paying the fees associated with that drop! I encourage every student to start attending tournaments quickly and often. These are the times that you grow the most as a speaker and performer and they end up being the really fun times. Tournaments are a way that we bond as a family. Additionally, tournament attendance plays a big factor if your eligibility for upper-level and travel tournaments. Varsity students are encouraged to make plans to be active tournament goers. Novice competitors can easily become varsity competitors and that will largely be determined by how many tournaments you attend. I also especially encourage our novices to pay attention to tournaments that have separate novice divisions available. These will not be available to you forever, so take advantage of them. Every student in the program is REQUIRED to attend all Hallsville hosted functions unless prior permission is given to be absent well in advance. I give you these dates early so that you can check your calendars and mark these. These are absolutely important and should be held as a priority for your family calendars. Any absences must be approved at MONTHS in advance.

Varsity students are expected to be encouragers and mentors to novice competitors. That includes being available for “Angel” tournaments and after school novice practices. It is important that you realize that your attitude fosters the growth and future of the program.

PRACTICES – Students are required to maintain 3 hours of practice per week outside of school. Sometimes, conflicts exist which may make it difficult to attend the required hours. These conflicts will be made known to the coach in advance. Appointments should not be scheduled during practices. Failure to follow this policy may result in decrease in practice grade, forfeiture of tournament slots and potential dismissal from the team. Practice may be scheduled on Monday, Tuesday or Thursday between 3:45 pm and 7:00 pm. As far as practices go, I will do my best to always be available for you after school and sometimes before school. I am going to have signup sheets for practice. While it is not mandatory that you sign up ahead of time, I am more willing to change my plans if I know students will be coming to practice. I understand that most of you are involved in other activities. I think that’s great and I encourage it. Please, fulfill your responsibilities with those groups first. But, then, always come back to me. I am accustomed to staying after school until late at night and am willing to do that if I know that students will be coming later. Just let me know. Communication on your part is critical. We have so many goals for this year and the ONLY way that we can accomplish them is to have a commitment to practice. Nothing will be given to us this year; we must earn everything. Practicing is the only way to make that happen. Practice does NOT mean that you will receive one-on-one time with me. Practicing with your teammates is just as important and beneficial as working with me. What you need to understand about practice is that forensics is very similar to any other athletic or music activity. Although much can be accomplished in class, adding in practice every week exponentially increases the likelihood of success. If you ever doubt whether or not practice is worth it, always remember that your competition is ALWAYS practicing. I will always push you to do more because I know that it breeds success. Just know I have never had a student come back and say, “gee, Mr. Dickson I really wish I hadn’t tried as hard”. Instead, too many students come back and say, “I really wish I had tried harder.” I try very hard to make sure that your child walks away from our program with no regrets.

HALLSVILLE SPEECH AND DEBATE TEAM RULES 1. All students must adhere to HISD policies; in addition all State and Federal laws apply at all times, even if a student is not involved in a debate-related activity. If the infraction happens during a time where the student is under the purview of the school, the coaches will handle violation of any policies with appropriate school (district) officials/law enforcement officials. Any policy violation may result in immediate probation/suspension or removal from the team in addition to normal disciplinary procedures. 2. Activities, included but not limited to, the use of tobacco and alcohol (or use of any other nonprescription drugs), gambling, harassment of another individual for any reason, theft, or acts of vandalism will not be permitted. Violation of these rules will result in a reduction of your travel schedule, suspension/removal from the team and/or discipline by the administration. The coaches should be apprised of any prescription drug use occurring during tournaments. In addition, Hallsville students involved with the forensic team must not be in a location where students from other schools or students from Hallsville are involved in illegal, inappropriate, and/or illicit activities at any time. In addition, the coaches believe that any use of alcohol, illegal drugs, tobacco or the abuse of prescription drugs on or off campus is contrary both to the health and fitness of individual team members and to the purpose, image and long term health of the forensic program. This agreement extends to summer workshop activities as well and all national travel. Therefore, in view of the necessary commitment for individual and team success, Hallsville from this point forward, expects that debaters abide by certain “rules of behavior” in order to ensure the greatest physical, mental and emotional well-being of all debaters. Proclamations of “I was there but I wasn't partaking" will fall on deaf ears. Being at a location where illegal/illicit activities occur makes you culpable and subject to actions by the coaches. You are not to be around behaviors listed above or others that your parents, the coaches and school administrators would disapprove of. If you are caught in a compromising position, your status on the team will be impacted. Any debater found in violation of these rules may be subject, but not limited, to the following consequences: a. First offense: Suspension from tournament(s) (of the coaches’ choice) for a length of time established by the coaches and/or referral to the administration. b. Second offense: Dismissal from the team for remainder of year and loss of eligibility for any post year awards. Depending on the timing of the infraction all relevant information may be passed on to school college counselors. If coaches were asked to write recommendations, they reserve the option to modify, rescind, and clarify any information given to colleges and/or college counselors. If the infraction were to happen post-graduation at the NSDA national tournament, your college may be informed. Dismissal does not excuse you from class assignments. 3. Respect for coaches and team members will be maintained at all times. Refrain from profanity, vulgarities and offensive language or humor. Any activities that might create or contribute to a hostile or uncomfortable environment will not be tolerated. All hate speech is prohibited. 4. No trading of evidence or other type of bargaining arrangement (including letting people borrow files to use against other schools) is permitted without permission of Mr. Dickson. 5. Promptness is key. Arrive at least five minutes before scheduled time if we are leaving from school. It is your responsibility to be on time. STUDENTS WILL FORFEIT THEIR PRIVILEGE TO COMPETE IF THEIR TARDINESS JEOPARDIZES OTHER MEMBERS OF THE TEAM. In addition, it will be the parents’ responsibility to get the student to the competition in a timely manner inclusive of incurring any costs associated with getting the student to the tournament if being late results in a student missing the transportation taken by other members of the team. Students are NOT allowed to transport themselves to competitions.

6. Safety procedures (ex. wearing a seat belt) should be followed on all modes of transportation. Adhere to the driver's expectations at all times. Students should take responsibility to call parents with enough time to spare on the drive home to allow appropriate drive time to the school to attempt to minimize delays in pickup. 7. No one will be permitted to leave the tournament site during debate tournaments without express consent of the adult(s) in charge. Team members are expected to arrive and depart from tournaments with the team unless prior approval has been obtained directly from the coaches in charge. As long as a Hallsville competitor is still competing, we will be a supportive team and be present at the tournament. Prior planning is absolutely necessary to deviate from this rule. Last minute plans or improvisations are discouraged and frowned upon. 8. Follow dress guidelines. If you are unclear about what appropriate attire is just ask Mr. Dickson. You may also choose to get your attire pre-approved. Despite recent trends in “dressing down” for competition at debate tournaments, our expectation is that team members will be professional. All students (unless given specific permission from a coach) are expected to remain in tournament attire until after the awards ceremony has ended. Men may loosen ties and take off jackets during downtime, but must be in proper tournament attire during competition rounds (even if not competing) and awards ceremonies. Likewise, women may bring more comfortable shoes to walk around in and remove jackets during downtime. 9. All tournament host rules must be followed. 10. Families are responsible for all drop fees, transportation, and other travel expenses they incur due to illness, conflicts, disciplinary actions, etc. ***STUDENTS ARE ALWAYS EXPECTED TO ABIDE BY THE HALLSVILLE ISD STUDENT HANDBOOK AS WELL AS THE STUDENT ACTIVITY’S CODE OF CONDUCT***

TOURNAMENT DAY RULES/PROCEDURES These rules are meant to be clarifications or additions to the rules already stated above. 1. Even though we often travel very early in the morning and don’t arrive home until very late, remember that YOU signed up for this tournament. Please remember that negative attitudes are cancerous to a team. We will all be tired and potentially irritable. It is your responsible to be in control of your emotions and remember that everyone is subject to the same situation. 2. All students traveling to a tournament are expected to ride the bus to AND from the tournament. 3. All students are expected to arrive at the high school no later than five minutes before our scheduled departure time. During this time, students are expected to be active participants in the loading process. 4. If a student misses the bus (and we cannot wait because it affects the entire squad), that student’s parent or legal guardian must drive their student to the tournament. If this is not possible, a phone call to Mr. Dickson is necessary and drop fees must be paid. Students are ABSOLUTELY NOT allowed to drive themselves to a tournament or have anyone other than their parent or legal guardian bring them. If either of these terms are broken, the student will be turned away from the tournament and subject to drop fees. THIS IS NON-NEGOTIABLE! 5. Upon arriving at the tournament, all students are expected to be active participants in the unloading process. Students will then change immediately (if not already in tournament attire). *If you have not worn tournament attire to the school for departure, please make sure that you are in appropriate clothing or you will not be allowed on the bus and will be subject to drop fees.* 6. Once the entire team is unloaded and properly dressed, the team may conduct a group warm-up. These include physical and vocal exercises necessary to get the body and voice ready for the competition. After the group warm-up, students are expected to be actively preparing for the tournament (reading over pertinent information for your perspective events). *If we have not arrived at our destination with enough time to complete warm-ups, they may start while in transit, but should not cause any student to be late to their first rounds.* 7. Students are expected to be knowledgeable of the tournament’s schedule and are individually responsible for attending all of their events on time. This includes, doing proper cross-entry procedures according to tournament protocol. I will be correcting registration issues, judging, or helping tabulate the tournament, so each student is individually responsible. When in doubt, ask questions. 8. Students are expected to keep the designated Hallsville area clean throughout the tournament. Remember we are representing ourselves, our coaches, our school, and our families. 9. Students who get eliminated early are to remain active observers in the tournament. 10. We are very fortunate in our district to have a budget that affords travel opportunities for the debate team. Please understand that each tournament trip costs the school between $500 and $1500 for entry fees. Unlike MANY other speech and debate teams, you are never asked to pay for these tournament entry fees. We are more than willing to invest in your child. We ask that they respect that investment and represent our program on our terms. Students should bring spending money for food or souvenirs. 11. At awards ceremonies, we will be respectful and courteous to our host and competitors. We will be gracious losers AND winners. We will be professional in every aspect (dress included). We will be proud of our team’s successes, but we will follow the popular mantra “act like you’ve been there before”. A great way to do this is to provide champions with a standing ovation and all Hallsville

medalists with a standing ovation. 12. If we stop on the way home at a fast food restaurant so that students (especially those that have been heavy in competition) can get something to eat, all behavior in public should reflect those standards and expectations already stated. 13. Students are encouraged to call parents with enough time for them to meet the bus as it returns to the school. I will always do my best to update parents via our Facebook and Twitter account (this is much more difficult if I am driving), but it is YOUR responsibility to have a parent or guardian pick you up at the school on time. If alternate arrangements need to be made for your ride home, please let coaches know BEFORE the tournament. 14. Occasionally we will be taking overnight trips. When we stay at a hotel/motel, the following guidelines will be STRICTLY adhered to: a. All room assignments shall be adhered to as assigned by Mr. Dickson. b. Young men are to remain in male rooms and young women are to remain in female rooms. This rule is strictly enforced after curfew. Before curfew if a student of the opposite sex is in the room, the door is to remain open at all times with at least one other student present. Rooms will be taped after curfew and this rule will be strictly enforced. c. Hallsville students are to remain in Hallsville rooms. Students from other schools are not allowed in Hallsville rooms. Students are encouraged to facilitate friendly bonds with students from other schools, but there are common areas for that purpose. d. Curfews will be STRICTLY enforced. No exceptions. Violations will result in suspensions and possibly termination from the program. e. All charges to the room are the financial responsibility of the student and her/his family. f. Students should always pack APPROPRIATE clothes and be in APPROPRIATE attire throughout our stay. g. Students are responsible for their own wake-up calls and are encouraged to leave enough time to eat breakfast (if available). Remember, we may be checking out before going to compete. h. ANY violations of these rules may result in a parent being called to pick up their student at their own financial detriment. Drop fees may also be applied. Severe violations may result in suspension or expulsion from the squad. 15. Students will attend every round of competition. Students are expected to compete in each round to the best of their abilities. Concessions and forfeitures of rounds may ONLY occur with the expressly given permission of the coaches. This will be rare. In short, we spend money to attend competitions not to hang out. DISCIPLINE LADDER FOR VIOLATIONS AND INFRACTIONS: Step One: Conference with Teacher Step Two: Conference with Parent (and/or Administrator) Step Three: Short Suspension Step Four: Longer Suspension Step Five: Squad Expulsion

*Note: steps may be skipped given the severity of the offense. Continual (or severe) violations of the rules may result in disciplinary action taken at the school level as a violation of the school’s “Activity Code of Conduct”. **Note: some infractions (travel, dress, tournament conduct, etc…) may result in removal/forfeiture of current contest (with drop fees charged). If said contest is a travel tournament, parents may be called to retrieve their students.

DROP FEES

You must always remember that YOU sign up for tournaments. I will always encourage but NEVER

force you to attend tournaments. You are the person who will sign your name up on the board. Most

tournaments establish a “drop deadline”. This is the time where entries become finalized. If you

decide that you don’t want to go or have a conflict come up (with another extracurricular activity,

family activity, etc…) that makes you drop out AFTER this deadline, you become financially

responsible for your “drop fees”.

Drop fees range from $25 all the way up to $100+ depending upon the tournament. Please understand

that I do not assign the drop deadline (it will vary from tournament to tournament) or the drop

fees. They are all set by the tournament. The reason you will become financially responsible for these

fees is that otherwise you are wasting valuable resources of the team’s budget. I have no problem

financially investing in you to become a great forensic competitor. Hallsville will always pay entry

fees regardless of the cost because you are worth it. What is not worth it, is Hallsville paying a fee

only to have you stay at home because you didn’t manage your calendar correctly. Dates are given to

you in advance. Of course, extenuating circumstances will be evaluated appropriately. Contact Mr.

Dickson if you have questions or concerns about the paying of drop fees.

Also, sometimes, drop fees will INCREASE with each passing day. As soon as you know that you

will not be able to attend, let me know. Oftentimes, drops on the day of or immediately before the

tournament result in a fee that is almost doubled!

Information for EVERY tournament we attend is available online. Students and parents should

become familiar with our tournament websites:

www.joyoftournaments.com

www.tabroom.com

www.speechwire.com

All drop fees must be paid in order for you to attend future tournaments. Failure to pay (without

making prior arrangements with Mr. Dickson) will temporarily suspend you from attending

tournaments.

STUDENT/PARENT AGREEMENT

The Hallsville High School Speech and Debate team is an honor organization created to give students the opportunity to build communication, responsibility, argumentation, and persuasion skills while in high school. As part of this objective, students will be required to attend tournaments out of town during the course of the semester. These tournaments will primarily be held on Saturday. While there are several scheduled tournaments, each student will not be required to attend all of them. Parents and their student should look at the schedule now to determine which tournaments the student will attend.

Parents should understand that whether at Hallsville High School or at another school for a tournament, students are bound by the Hallsville ISD Student Code of Conduct. In addition, students will be held to a high standard of moral and ethical behavior consistent with any representative of Hallsville High School. While at tournaments, students will be speaking, interping, debating or observing while instructors and other adult chaperones will be judging in other parts of the school. While the students and adults will be at one central location, students will not be constantly supervised while on tournaments. Any violation of the school code of conduct, leaving the premises without permission, damage to own or others property, or behavior not consistent with an ethical representative of Hallsville High School may result in immediate dismissal from the team and school punishment.

While we are pleased with the honor that our students have shown to our school and other schools while on trips, we must inform students and parents of the expectation the team and the school has for their behavior at and away from school. Please assist us by reinforcing these expectations at home.

If you believe that your student should have the privilege of participating in speech and debate trips and possesses the moral, ethical, and responsible character required on these trips, please sign below to indicate your understanding of the requirements in participation. There is also a line for the student to sign indicating understanding and an agreement to abide by these rules and behavior guidelines.

Also, we often get back rather late for tournaments. I provide the students an estimate of when we

will be home; however, since I am not running the tournament that is ONLY an estimate. Many parents would rather not be called when their child has their own vehicle to transport them back home; however, if you would like for your child to contact you when we leave the tournament or get close to home, please make sure that they know this. If you feel like I need to know to ensure that they call, please let me know by jotting down a note on this form. If I don’t know who definitely needs to call then I leave it up to the students and their agreement with their parents to make that decision. Each trip I will do an “All Call” before we leave and as we get close to home to call. Many call voluntarily but I don’t MAKE children call; however, if you would prefer that for your child then I will be more than happy to do that.

Thank you for your assistance,

Christopher Dickson Director/Coach of Speech and Debate Hallsville High School Email: cdickson@hisd.com

SPEECH AND DEBATE DRESS CODE FOR TOURNAMENTS

LADIES:

1. Dress suits or pant suits are preferred. (Preferably black. Dress suits should be knee length skirt, matching jacket, hose and shoes, and solid nice shirt)

2. Hair should be pulled out of the face. 3. No excessive make-up. 4. Clothing should be modest (no cleavage, avoid tight clothing and high skirts –

knee length is about the highest your skirt should go) 5. If you are in CX Debate or Duo Interpretation try to coordinate outfits with

partner. You don’t have to be twinkies but don’t clash. 6. If a skirt is worn, you MUST wear pantyhose. 7. Close toed shoes are preferred. Varsity (district) competitors must have these. 8. No excessive jewelry including piercings other than ears should be seen. 9. ALWAYS wear appropriate underclothing but we should not see it.

GENTLEMEN:

1. Suits are preferred. (Required for district competition and beyond) 2. Khakis, button up shirt, tie, and jacket are acceptable at practice invitational

tournaments for DEBATERS ONLY and at urban tournaments. 3. Dress shoes are a must – This does not include new black tennis shoes. 4. Hair should not EVER be in your face (eyes)! 5. Wear an undershirt and any other appropriate undergarments. 6. Socks should match your pants. 7. Ties should not have anything on them other than a VERY mild print or pattern

(not pictures).

TIP: Goodwill has excellent choices. However, if the above dress code is not possible to be purchased or acquired at this time, please visit with the coach as soon as possible. Coach has some limited alternate resources available to you. Nonetheless, it is the responsibility of the student to communicate privately with the coach their needs and/or concerns.

Hallsville High School Speech and Debate Team 2019 – 2020

Student Acknowledgement & Signature

_____ I have reviewed the Hallsville HS Speech & Debate Team Handbook with my parent and agree to the terms of membership and participation on the Hallsville HS Speech & Debate team.

__________________________________________________________________ Student Name (printed) __________________________________________________________________ Student Signature ___________________________________ Date

Parent Acknowledgement & Signature

_____ I have reviewed the Hallsville HS Speech & Debate Team Handbook with my child and agree to the terms of membership and participation on the Hallsville HS Speech & Debate team.

__________________________________________________________________ Parent/Guardian Name (printed) __________________________________________________________________ Parent Guardian Signature ____________________________________ Date

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