October 3, 2026
Host
Welcome to our podcast. Today, we talk about a school in Brooklyn, New York. It was in trouble. But it used debate to change.
Guest
That's right. Middle School 50 was on a dangerous list. Enrollment dropped from over 1,000 to 160 students. It almost closed.
Host
So, what did the principal do?
Guest
He was a debate coach before. He put debate into every class, like English, Spanish, and math.
Host
Debate in math? How does that work?
Guest
Students explain their math reasoning. For example, a ratio problem. They debate which method is better. This deepens understanding.
Host
That's interesting. Did it help?
Guest
Yes. Test scores rose. Enrollment increased. The debate team started to win.
Host
I heard two students won a national championship.
Guest
Yes, Erick Williams and Anedwin Moran. They won policy debate last June. They felt happy and excited.
Host
That's a great journey. But some might say debate is only for some students. What do you think?
Guest
Well, a third of students joined. It's like a sport for the mind. It helps everyone speak and write better. Aria Rana said her writing improved.
Host
So, debate changed the school's reputation.
Guest
Yes. The principal says there is deep pride. People say, "I went to that school."
Host
Thank you for listening. Debate can make a big difference. Goodbye.