Climb the Mountain is named from Speech and Debate expert Jim Hanson’s motivational speech calling on participants to achieve their very best. Climbing the Mountain is the apex of the effort to be successful in speech and debate—at the highest levels possible and among as many participants as possible.

We have in-person and online afterschool programs, at-school programs, and summer camps for elementary school, middle school, and high school students. We help students Climb the Mountain and become the best speakers and debaters they can be.

About Us

Tournaments give students the chance to put their skills into action in a supportive, competitive setting—building confidence, teamwork, and real-world communication.

Tournaments

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Students work with other motivated, smart kids. They learn to express themselves, organize their thoughts better and meet other students who want to discuss interesting ideas.​

At School Programs

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Students who join our program develop self-confidence, thinking skills, and have fun communicating about important issues.

After School

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From Practice to Podium by Shaping Tomorrow’s Voices

Be more effective in presentations and discussions and when you have your own thoughts on an issue. Finish with the materials, practice with experts.

Summer Climb Camps

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Don’t Just Take Our Word for It

- Parent

"Our child is happy to be in your program and learns a lot. We are so grateful for all your programs do."

- Instructor

“It was so impressive watching the students debate such challenging topics at the middle school tournament this year. The kids were able to take on the challenge of debate and really show their impressive skills! I was blown away with the kids’ dedication to debate. The Climb kids demonstrated strong skills; these kids are really extraordinary!”

- Parent

" I want to tell you your class helps my two kids every day. Especially in their writing in school. You really broke down reviewing material coherently for them. They use their notes as foundation to this day. Best class they ever took. You and your students are impressive. Your inclusiveness is making a great impact. Your program is a treasure for people who needed your guidance in finding their voice and confidence."


- Parent

"Our child loved this whole camp and wants to continue."

- Parent

"Our son loves coming to the debate class."

- Parent

"My daughter truly loves your classes, and can't wait for the next tournament. We are deeply grateful for the coaching you have provided to her. She gained much more confidence in presentations over the quarter."

Climb the Mountain

Speech & Debate Foundation