JSA is a nonpartisan political debate club.  We welcome budding Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, Greens, etc. to come and debate hot issues of the day, discuss politics, and have a great time.  We take several trips each year to meet up with other high school students from around the nation who are equally interested in politics and debate. 

Our schedule 2011-2012

See our facebook page (you must be logged into facebook to view this, but it is an open group.  Any student or parent may join).  

https://www.facebook.com/groups/123304894387299/

Fall State Convention November 19 & 20, 2011 in Madison, WI.  See Mrs. Orzoff-Baranyk in 2203 to pick up forms that are due on October 18.  Candy sales can supplement or completely cover the cost of the trip!

Winter Congress February 16-20, 2011 in Washinton, D.C.  Information will be made available after Fall State.  Students who considering going should see Mrs. Orzoff with their social security number so that we can start the background check process necessary for a White House Tour.

The Following is from http://www.jsa.org/

"JSA members gain valuable public speaking, critical thinking and leadership skills.  Through chapter debates, thought talks and other activities, students develop their public speaking skills in an non-competitive environment.  The emphasis for the students is on communicating their own opinions, persuading their peers and learning by listening to the opinions and thoughts from others.  These valuable skills are necessary to help today's students become leaders for tomorrow who will raise the level of politcal discourse.

Because JSA is a student-run organization, the students who run the chapter will be developing their leadership skills.  Organization building, communication, public relations and relationship building are just some of the skills sets that successful chapter leaders aquire.  Additionally, students who get involved in the Junior State's broader state and regional leadership have the opportunity to plan and run major student conventions and network with student leaders from all over the nation.

Even though students take the lead in running the Junior State, the organization relies heavily on the participation and guidance of each chapter's teacher/advisor.  Rather than just a glorified chaperone, JSA depends on its teacher/advisors to ensure the program's educational value.  The most successful chapters have teacher/advisors who help the chapter leaders determine which issues to explore and what activities are best to help bring understanding to those issues.  From helping the students to carefully examine all sides of an issue to building strong working relationships with the school's administration and other faculty members, the teacher/advisor's active participation is essential for a high quality chapter program."