**The 2025-2026 debate season has wrapped up. We will have judging opportunities in July, at our Chicago Debates Summer Institute! Our 2026-2027 season will officially commence in late September.**
At Chicago Debates, our success hinges on the invaluable support of our dedicated volunteers. Ready to dive into the exciting world of competitive debate? Complete the Volunteer Application.
We're proud to offer Policy, Public Forum, and Debate en Español debate formats during our regular season. When signing up, you can indicate your debate preferences, select "No Preference," or reach out to the Senior Volunteer & Outreach Manager, Jocelyn Aguirre, for further clarification.
Here's the exciting part: you have the option to collect a judging stipend! We value your dedication, and that's why we offer $25 per high school round and $15 per middle school or Public Forum round. When it comes to nail-biting elimination rounds, we up the ante to $30. You have the option to either pocket your judging stipend or generously donate it back into the program, as well as request service learning or community hours.
Get ready to make this debate season a memorable one, and thank you for being a vital part of the Chicago Debates community!
If you have any questions, feel free to contact the Senior Volunteer & Outreach Manager, Jocelyn Aguirre.
