By Joe English

GALWAY–Ms. K’s room filled with students and teachers last week as Galway JSA led its first debate.  Two students, Abi Wood and Joe English, kicked off the discussion with main speeches, passionately arguing about student rights, answering questions, and countering points made by their opponents.  The eclectic mix of students and teachers presented their opinions in the half hour discussion, furthering JSA’s goal of encouraging civic involvement.

The topic of debate read: “Does creating a safe educational environment justify infringing upon students’ civil rights?”  Abi Wood, the main proponent, argued that if parents send their children to school, administrators have the responsibility of protecting their children at all costs.  This gives schools the right to search lockers, censor speech, punish personal expression, etc. just as parents are allowed to do under current laws.  Joe English, the main opponent, countered by questioning the citizenship of American students.  “If we are citizens,” he argued, “then students should be given the right to due process, the freedoms to assemble, print, and speak, and the right to privacy.”  Because school administrators are neither elected nor entirely unbiased, he continued, they should not have the right to decide which civil liberties they grant to students.

The debate offered students and teachers a constructive, friendly opportunity to discuss issues pertinent to the student body.  Nearly half of the audience asked a question or stated personal views on the issue, providing a variety of viewpoints.   The best student and teacher speakers (Cameron Smith and Mr. Chatterton) were elected by the group to win Dunkin’ Donuts for their articulation and insight.  The group voted on the resolution after the time limit elapsed, siding with the opponent.

The next JSA debate will feature two student-teacher tag teams.  The debate is currently scheduled for April 17th and is open to all high school students and teachers. We hope to see you there!

Photos by Jeremy Kitchen