(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT — April 8, 2025) — At Coronado High School, the Speech and Debate team is doing more than prepping students for competitions—it's empowering them with a voice, confidence, and the skills to thrive beyond the classroom.
For junior Alejandro Martinez Diaz, debate has become a steppingstone toward a future in politics. He says it’s given him the confidence to speak up—and speak with purpose.
“Public speaking is something you have to do in most careers, and it’s good to start early,” Alejandro said. “It feels good to pretend you’re a grown-up for a bit and talk about things you care about in a space where others care, too.”
Alejandro, who recently qualified for Nationals, says the program is more than just a competition—it's a space to grow, challenge yourself, and connect with others.
“Debate is a safe space to learn about your own ideas and explore who you are,” he said. “I’m so thankful to have been brought up in El Paso too because it gave me such a different perspective on life and I’m able to share it with everyone.”
Fellow junior Aruja Misra, who also qualified for Nationals, said debate helped her discover a side of herself she never knew existed.
“Debate helped me find a voice I didn’t know I had,” Aruja said. “It helped me overcome struggles and gave me the confidence to speak up—not just in competition, but in life.”
Her first tournament win as a freshman remains a powerful memory, and now, with plans to study law or business, she wants to use her voice to help others.
“The community is extremely welcoming,” she said. “You meet people from all different backgrounds, and it really opens your eyes. I want to help give others a voice, too.”
Junior Emma Sassenfeld, who recently qualified for the 6A UIL State competition, echoed the same transformation—joining debate helped her come out of her shell.
“I joined because I thought it was cool to be in a place where kids’ voices are being heard,” Emma said. “Debate teaches you to stand up for what you believe in. It’s prepared me for whatever comes next.”
Behind the team’s success is Kyle Peterson, Coronado’s Speech and Debate coach, who has watched her students grow from quiet observers into confident leaders.
“Debate helps in all aspects—writing, research, history, critical thinking—and most importantly, it helps students find their voice,” Peterson said. “I’m proud of all my students, even the ones who don’t win. It’s not about the trophies—it’s about the growth.”
From first speeches to national competitions, Coronado’s Speech and Debate team is proving that when students find their voice, they find their power. And with every argument they build and every round they face, these students are stepping boldly into their futures—ready to speak, lead, and make a difference.