Hello!
My name is Zachary Bauerle and I am the head Speech and Debate coach this season. I feel incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to contribute to an already successful program and to work with such dedicated young scholars. Despite the strange circumstances of this year I firmly believe we can achieve all of our individual and collective goals, and hopefully have some fun in the process.
I was born and raised outside of Chicago until I moved to Missoula in 2010 for University. Since then, I have earned my Bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies with a focus on climate change studies, as well as a Master's degree in social studies secondary education. During my undergraduate experience I had the opportunity to participate as a delegate in the Model Arab League program and won the "Best Country" award at the 2013 Northern Rockies Conference. In 2014 I was chosen to instruct and coach the program which was an equally challenging and rewarding experience. Beyond academics, I am an avid traveler and have spent nearly 2 years of my life living and working in Vietnam while traveling much of East Asia.
Speech and Debate requires students to conduct research, develop performance and argumentative skills, as well as to foster individual confidence. Regardless of the event, I believe it is important for students to communicate and collaborate with one another to cultivate their public speaking abilities. This season we are going to focus on nourishing speaking confidence through actively engaging with the research and materials, so that students feel prepared and empowered to perform effectively at the tournaments. If you have any additional questions regarding the goals and vision of this year's program, please reach out to me!
Speech and Debate will meet in the E-Lab on Mondays from 3:00-5:00, and Tuesday-Thursday from 3:45-5:45. Students are only required to attend two practices a week. Tournaments will begin on December 4th and will take place on Friday afternoons and Saturdays throughout the day.
Warm regards,
Zachary Bauerle
