Florida College System
Sunshine State Debate

The Florida College System is excited to announce its first annual Sunshine State Debate celebrating the Semiquincentennial of the United States. Colleges are encouraged to submit student participants to compete in this statewide debate in a display of excellence and camaraderie. This debate will be hosted at Florida's Historic Capitol on President’s Day, February 16, 2026. Students will have an opportunity to not only participate in the competition, but also engage in tours of our state Capitol, meet with State leaders and be recognized during Florida’s 2026 legislation session.

 

In honor of President’s Day, we will adopt the Ronald Reagan Presidential debate style for this competition. This style places emphasis on civility, storytelling, and humor, allowing students to take a stand while aiming to win over the opposition and the audience with grace. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, which runs the Reagan Presidential Library, will provide logistical support and training.

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If your institution is interested in competing in this inaugural debate, please fill out the application below by November 10, 2025. Each institution may submit one application with the desired number of student competitors (between 1-6). Once applications are reviewed, coaches will be notified how many competitor spots have been awarded along with a registration link to collect competitor information. For additional questions, please contact FCSevents@fldoe.org.

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