St. Matthew’s Debate Team Dominates Season Opener

St. Matthew’s Parish School’s powerhouse middle school debate team kicked off the winter season with an impressive performance at the Debate Tournament at New Roads School in Santa Monica on Saturday, October 25th. Competing alongside five other schools—Geffen, Mirman School, New Roads School, The Willows, and Windward—St. Matthew’s debaters demonstrated the skill, preparation, and poise that has become their trademark. The debate topics included “No individual should be allowed to have over one billion dollars” and “The U.S. federal government should prioritize economic growth over environmental protections.”

The team had a strong showing in the season opener with three teams placing 1st [Adelaide G., Mila L., John V.,] 7th [Henry F., George H., Finn P.] and 10th [Harry H., Christian L., Mac M.] overall and St. Matthew’s earned 2nd place for overall most wins among the competing schools. Four students were recognized with individual speaker awards, placing 4th [Mac M.], 11th [John V.], 13th [Adelaide G.], and 15th [Alexandra S.] overall out of 64 students who competed—a testament to the collaborative preparation and supportive team environment.

St. Matthew’s 2025-2026 debate team comprises 15 students representing both sixth and seventh grade. The roster includes three returning seventh graders from last year’s team and three new seventh graders—all of whom earned awards at the tournament. A strong group of new sixth graders also competed exceptionally well on this highly competitive day, with many walking away with awards.

“These outstanding results reflect countless hours of research, practice rounds, and dedication from our students.” said Justine Bernacet, debate coach and St. Matthew’s teacher, who led the team at the tournament. “As we head deeper into the season, one thing is clear: our debate team isn’t just competing—they’re setting the standard.” The team’s performance at this tournament was consistent with its strong record of success. St. Matthew’s regularly places among the top three schools overall and often has one or two teams finish in the top 15, with several students recognized among the top debaters.

The tournament also showcased the strong community spirit that defines St. Matthew’s. Students’ parents showed up in force to support the team, joined by fellow teachers and non-debate team students lending their devoted Falcon spirit throughout the day’s competition.

St. Matthew’s will host the 2nd annual winter debate tournament at their Water Garden campus on December 13, 2025.