I've judged policy since the 1980s, LD and PF since around 2009.

In PF: I don't even like paradigms because I think your job should be to present a case that would work before an ordinary lay audience. If you want paradigms and jargon and spreads and goofy stylized arguments, you can do policy. Anyway, I want to be convinced about the overall merits of the resolution, and I want you talk like you are a regular person speaking to a regular audience. I can and do flow, but I don't want you to go so fast that I can't follow you (you bear the risk). I will look at the big picture, not technicalities, in deciding who wins.

Certified PA Social Studies teacher for 8 years now. 4 of which I have taught Government and Economics. 2020 is my first year participating in Speech and Debate and I'm eager to continue to learn more. I do prefer a moderate pace when speaking rather than a speedy rate since I would rather hear your argument than judge based on how many words you can get in within the timeframe. Follow the three guides below for a sense of what I look for!

1. Engage arguments with discernment. Disagreement is always welcome, however, engage with the specific argument and not your prewritten counters.

2. Be consistent in your debate. Beginning, End, and throughout your counters/rebuttals. Build your story/argument and do not deviate, Instead, defend a cohesive worldview throughout the round – and pull that story through extending both warrants and impacts.

3. Be respectful: Exercise good judgment. If you do something that a majority of reasonable people would find unkind, offensive or rude I will stop to give a violation.

Please speak loudly and clearly. A moderate pace is fine, but speed through it, and you'll lose me. I appreciate solid sources and statistics, especially in debate. Speech topics can hit an emotional chord, but don't be afraid to use humor.