A little about me: I didn't grow up debating, but I raised a couple of debaters and I'm the Associate Head of School at a Debate school in NOLA... what that means is that I'm not a novice judge but I'm also no expert. I will do my best because I know you are too and we both deserve that respect. I've also judged some "progressive" debate so it's ok to talk fast until the debate is nothing but you spewing syllables as fast as you can and me reading your case and trying to figure out what it's about... Debate is about communicating your point of view orally, eloquently, and persuasively... and not so much about technicalities for me...or the possible end of all civilization as we know it.

A pet peeve is when debaters feel that judges have researched the topic to the degree that they are experts and make arguments or claims (perhaps even vocalizing that it is "obvious" or "implied") without a clear connection to how it supports your specific argument. Please take the time to explain and make the connection for me so I can vote for you.

Please be respectful of each other; I have a bit of an edge myself but don't be mean. Excessive condescension of the other team is a turn off and will show in your speaker points.

Add me to the email chain: deenacarey@newmanschool.org

1. Spewing/spreading/verbal strafing or otherwise surpassing the speed of sound while speaking will not earn points. I need to be able to understand what you are saying and to know what your contentions are and the opposing team needs to understand as well for a good debate to occur. Please keep your speeches concise. Good debaters should be able to relay a high level of information concisely.

2. Rudeness to the other team will be noted. This includes being pompous, smirking, sarcasm, interrupting, etc. Please be polite.

3. Please have evidence annotated and available if requested.

4. Be aware of the time limits for each segment of your round and be prepared to time yourself.

About me:

I come from a very traditional circuit. Luckily, our school allows it's students to travel and learn about the progressive debate format. Full disclosure, one of my students helped me write this paradigm. I would prefer to watch a traditional round but I am open to viewing a BASIC progressive round.

Speed:

I will not understand what you are talking about if you are spreading. It is your responsibility to make sure that I understand your case.

CX:

I enjoy cross examination. I do not appreciate snarky remarks. I prefer for you to conduct yourselves in a polite manner. I will not flow CX and I will not connect your arguments, you need to make the connection for me.

K's:

I would really appreciate if you would not read any Kritiks, only because I will not understand what you are talking about. If you do choose to read a K, you need to explain everything so that I can understand.

Other notes:

*Off time road maps are a necessity and greatly appreciated

*I am willing to give you a 10 second grace period after the timer has gone off to wrap up your final thoughts. Any continuation beyond the grace period will not be flowed.

MOST OF ALL: Make sure you are having fun! I am looking forward to judging your rounds. <3