Programs "I think since i have shared NDA with so many good friends and mentors, all the moments are fun so it’s hard to think of just one." - Rosendy Rodriguez About NDA “I love sharing my experience with the kids. Being able to open their minds to learning life skills that can be applied to anything.” – Monique Evans SpotLight If anything plays a part in helping children acquire skills in public speaking, organizing, and expressing themselves, I’m all for it. NDA does this, so I will always be here.” – Tahira Tate

OUR SHORT NDA DOCUMENTARY

The Newark Debate Academy undertook a documentary project to capture the organization’s history and its impact on generations of students. The film highlights the 40-year legacy of some of NDA’s most influential figures while presenting a clear vision for the organization’s future. This documentary stands as a lasting record of NDA’s work, values, and continued commitment to student voice and civic engagement.

Check Out the Full Video!

DONATE TO THE NEWARK DEBATE ACADEMY!

Our work fosters civic engagement and participation, teaching students how to present their positions in a productive and effective manner while taking proactive roles in driving change in their local communities. We remain deeply committed to engaging students in meaningful debate and continue to expand high-quality, in-person programming that strengthens our schools, develops student voice, and supports a vibrant civic culture.

Speech and debate programs are more essential than ever. Your support helps ensure students have access to rigorous, empowering opportunities that build critical thinking, confidence, and civic leadership.

DONATE

All donations are tax deductible

Read the Real Story

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Debate in the Classroom: Back in action and stronger than ever!

We are proud to announce that 37 Newark schools now have active debate in the classroom programs supported by the…
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2025–2026 School Year Begins With a Bang for the Newark Debate Academy

NEWARK, N.J. — November 26, 2025 —The Newark Debate Academy (NDA) has launched the 2025–2026 school year with extraordinary momentum,…
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Regular Season Ends with Most Competitive Tournament of the Year

The Newark Debate Academy held its final regular season tournament for the 2020-2021 season this weekend. With the judging pool…
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New Website and Spring Renewal

On April 27th the Newark Debate Academy Launched its new website! It will be our new home for information and…
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When the Newark Debate Academy made Women’s History

Brianna Aaron from Science Park High School becomes the first Black Woman to win...
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"I love sharing my experience with the kids. Being able to open their minds to learning life skills that can be applied to anything. It's also part of my way of helping the future of the community continue on their journey in growth and success." - Monique Evans

“While it has brought me a series of accolades, in-depth critical thinking skills, a full ride to Wake Forest University, and a series of connections, it has also taught me the hardships of losing, consistent hard work, and being able to pave through being tired.” - Brianna Aaron

"The Newark Debate Academy has been a national leader in promoting debating activities for middle school students, and many other communities around the nation (Washington, DC and Atlanta are examples) have learned from them and followed their lead in this area." Alfred C. Snider, Director of World Debate Institute

"Rashawn Davis graduated from University High School in 2010, where he was salutatorian. He then went on to major in Government and Peace Studies from Georgetown University. In 2014, Rashawn became the youngest person in the history of Newark to appear on a municipal ballot." Newark Debate Academy, Alumni Spotlight

NATIONAL PARTNERS

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