Storm King’s Speech and Debate Team traveled to Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, recently to compete in the prestigious Harvard National High School Speech and Debate Tournament. Widely recognized as the largest and most competitive high school speech and debate tournament in the country, the annual event draws top student competitors from across the United States and around the world each Presidents Day Weekend.

Representing Storm King were Aadya G. ’27, Elspeth D. ‘27, Dung V. ‘27, and Liam M. ’27. The 2026 tournament brought together nearly 6,000 students from 43 states and 15 countries, with more than 500 schools participating both in person and online. Students competed in a wide range of events, including Policy Debate, Lincoln-Douglas Debate, Public Forum Debate, Student Congress, and numerous individual and duo speech categories.

Storm King competed in the highly competitive World Schools Debate division, facing off against more than 50 schools. Over the course of six rigorous rounds, the team debated timely and thought-provoking topics, including tracking in K–8 schools, political speech by athletes in the Olympics, the morality of veganism, the use of non-profits as government service providers, and whether society should separate art from the artist.

Demonstrating poise, preparation, and teamwork, Storm King secured three wins out of six debates—an impressive accomplishment at a tournament of this caliber. Each round challenged students to think critically, collaborate strategically, and respond persuasively to complex arguments in real time.

When they were not competing, team members took time to explore Harvard’s historic campus, observe other high-level debates, and connect with peers from across the country and around the globe. Congratulations to our team on an outstanding showing at one of the nation’s most respected academic competitions!