I am a high school civics teacher who is relatively new to debate. My judging experience is limited, but I consider myself to be well informed in evaluating student work. As a judge, I expect debate participants to be respectful and I do not tolerate discriminatory, hateful, harmful, or profane language. I will allow cross examination to go a few seconds over time if there is an important question and answer that needs to play out. Clarity in an argument is more important to me than speed. While I recognize the importance of debate as a competition, I highly value the learning experience it presents for students.

I currently compete on the Mckendree University's Debate team, I do IPDA and NPDA. When it comes to debate I know a fair good amount. Therefore, when it comes to judging I look for the cleanest way to vote. However, there are multiple things to know when I am judging your debate:

1. When there is a voting criteria I always look for which team mets that best.
2. I come into debate with a clear mind, so I expect you to explain your arguments fully.
3. A story line that makes me feel like I have to vote for you. Story lines allow for a clear way to get your point across while proving your point matters.
4. This also goes with impact arguments. Tell me I need to vote this way because if I don't this will happen.
5. I will vote on presumption if need be.
6. I prefer when arguments are clear, make sure your argument makes sense.
7. I don't flow CX so don't assume I do, or that I will know what you are talking about in the debate if you bring it up without explaining.
8. Be nice throughout the whole debate. I understand that debate can be stressful but there is no reason to be rude.