High school debate team advances to Chicago competition under advisor Mario Patel

The recent Board of Education meeting for the Bettendorf Community School District (BCSD) on May 21, 2025, highlighted the achievements of student debate participants and emphasized community engagement in school activities.

The meeting began with a presentation from Mario Patel, the speech and debate advisor, who introduced three students heading to Chicago for a prestigious competition. The students, Molly, Karen, and Sam, specialize in Lincoln Douglas debate, a format that combines philosophical arguments with statistical analysis. Molly, the vice president of the debate team, shared insights into the rigorous preparation required for competitions, noting that the team had a successful year, winning numerous tournaments. Her peers acknowledged her leadership and dedication, underscoring the importance of teamwork in their achievements.

Following the student presentations, board members expressed gratitude to the community for its support of the school budget and recognized the contributions of students in various extracurricular activities, including an art show and a recent jazz concert. The board also announced upcoming events, such as the AAPI food festival and a performance of "Twelfth Night," encouraging community participation.

The meeting concluded with a call for increased community involvement in school governance, with board members thanking Susan Barber for her candidacy and emphasizing the value of public engagement in educational discussions. This sentiment reflects a broader commitment to fostering a collaborative environment between the school district and the community it serves.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of student achievements and community support in enhancing the educational experience within the BCSD, setting a positive tone for future initiatives and events.