Why We Do This
Everyone starts
somewhere.
For most of the coaches in our organization, it is not an exaggeration to say that speech and debate changed our lives. It gave us structure, rigor, compassion, and purpose. It also gave us a community that many students struggle to find in traditional schools.
Both of our founders were late bloomers in speech and debate. Neither started as the most talented person in the room. They improved through years of practice, strong coaching, and a community that believed in them.
We built The Argument Institute to give more students that same opportunity. Everyone begins in a different place, but where a student starts should not determine where they finish. Our job is to provide the coaching, resources, community, and belief that help each student grow into what they are capable of becoming.
Leadership
Founders
Spencer Orlowski
Co-Founder & Executive Director
Spencer built The Argument Institute from the ground up with a single conviction: great coaching changes lives. A nationally-ranked competitor and seasoned educator, he oversees curriculum, coach development, and the long-term vision of the organization.
Steve Scopa
Co-Founder & Director of Debate
Steve brings structure, rigor, and competitive fire to everything he touches. As Director of Operations, he manages day-to-day logistics, coach relations, and tournament strategy, making sure every student has what they need to compete at their best.
Our Mission
To equip students with the communication skills, critical thinking, and competitive instincts that open doors in debate, in the classroom, and in life.
Our Method
Evidence-based coaching built around individual strengths. Every student gets a personalized roadmap and a coach who knows their event from the inside.
Our Standard
We hire coaches who are serious about the activity and serious about teaching. Deep experience matters — but so does the ability to connect with students and help them grow.
Join the Team
Work With Us
We hire people who love the activity and know how to teach it. If you are passionate about speech and debate and want to help students grow, we want to hear from you.
Part-Time · Hourly
Hourly Coach
Conduct one-on-one sessions in your event. Set your own schedule, paid per session.
Part-Time · Project-Based
Assistant Coach
Research evidence, produce files, provide Slack feedback. Great for recent graduates.
Seasonal · Full-Time at Camp
Summer Camp Staff
Lead workshops and practice rounds at our immersive week-long summer camp.
Access
Scholarship & Work Study
Great coaching should be accessible. Our work-study program lets motivated students earn reduced or free tuition by contributing to our community: judging rounds, producing files, and more.
“The activity gave me everything. We want to give that back.”
Coach Orlowski, Co-Founder