Guided by Kids

I did not get any photos because I just didn't think of it, but we had an excellent day yesterday at the Millard North Middle School Debate Invitational.

Angelina, an 8th grader who hasn't been able to join us for class sessions this year, asked if she could write cases and come to a tournament (she was in GBK last year) so I said of course. She went 3-1 in prelims, won her round in quarterfinals, and then lost a close 2-1 decision in semi-finals in varsity. Henry was 3-1 in prelims and earned another quarter-finalist award, losing a close 2-1 decision in that round. Meyer was 2-2, in very close rounds, but earned the award for the most-hard working, enthusiastic teammate from our team at the tournament.

Everyone had fun while working as hard as they could to do well. One more tournament to go next weekend, back at Elkhorn Valley View!

Had a great day yesterday at the Elkhorn Valley View Middle School Debate tournament. Henry and Meyer, both 5th graders, competed at their first debate tournament, learned and listened to judges, and had fun!

The most important thing to see was how well they worked together in preparing and between rounds. They also were very eager to work on improvements between rounds.

There were 21 students entered in the 6th grade division, and both Henry and Meyer finished in the top half, with Henry going 4-0 and Meyer 2-2 in that division. Henry lost a close 2-1 decision in quarterfinals are earned quarterfinalist recognition.

Teaching and coaching debate is a great way to spend a Saturday, especially with two young debaters doing great work! Congrats, Henry and Meyer!

Next up, Millard North Middle School Debate Invitational, next Saturday.

Check out the new blog post at

Educational Opportunity For Middle School | Guided by Kids | Ralston Guided by Kids teaches speech and debate to 5th through 8th grade students in the Omaha metro area, offering a free educational opporunity.

I see that a lot of folks have been checking out our page. Just want to let everyone know that Payton Evans and I will be back teaching and coaching 5th-8th graders the art of debate.

My plans are to have classes return to Omaha Marian High School, since I am going to continue also as an assistant debate coach at Marian next year.

Will work out a schedule soon--I believe we will start in January 2026 next year, post Winter break.

As always, Guided by Kids will be offered completely free of charge to students who apply and who are willing to learn and grow as individuals.

Last year was a bit of a struggle health-wise, but I am feeling better right now than I have in a couple years, and I am ready to be guided by kids once again in 2026!