An Interview: Carl J. Stafford, University Middle & High School

Tell us about your school and its team.

This will be the fifth year that our school will compete in Debate and Forensics. While our school isn't a brand-new program, we have yet to tap into our full potential. We are a Title I school. 100% of our students qualify for free and reduced lunch and reside in some of the toughest zip codes within the Kansas City metropolitan area. Despite the many obstacles our kids face daily, they are more than ecstatic to continue to be a part of the debate society. Our students are hungry for success and are extremely dedicated. Last season, our squads experienced a record-breaking season within our team’s history.

How does the team work at your school?

Both our middle and high school teams are now under the umbrella of an academic pipeline known as the "School of Advocacy." The School of Advocacy (SOA) at University Academy is dedicated to cultivating young leaders and change agents within our community.

Tell us more about the SOA.

We are a school within a school that offers real-world learning (RWL) opportunities, dual college credit courses, student scholarships, community service projects, career pathway opportunities through community connections, and much more! With a focus on social-emotional learning, parental involvement, and student leadership, our mission is to inspire students to use their voices to drive meaningful change, preparing them to lead and make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.

How could additional funding help your school?

We need help with NSDA memberships, resource packages, debate brief subscriptions, software programs, books, and basic classroom supplies.