English teacher Holly Hollifield is an experienced educator and debator. She’s been in the business for 24 years and has been part of debate since her high school days.

She teaches English, a subject she is passionate about, and tries to make learning fun for her students.

“I ask myself, ‘Would I enjoy this?’ and if not, I try to change it,” Hollifield said.

In addition to being a teacher, she is the debate team’s sponsor. Hollifield was the coach of the Dorman debate team while she taught there, and some students last year caught wind of her past experience.

“I see what the students want. It’s very laid back right now, but if they wanted to make it more serious and compete, I would help them research and prepare,” Hollifield said.

Hollifield said that being a part of the debate club helps students to realize that they have to be open-minded and listen to other people’s opinions, but it also allows students to support their own opinions.

“You’re always creating arguments whether you realize it or not, with your teachers, parents, or even friends. Debate helps you learn how to speak in a logical way and support your arguments,” Hollifield said.

Practices are laid back as well, with someone spinning a wheel of topics and choosing a side to argue for.

“Last week it was Pepsi versus Coke or Chick-fil-a versus Zaxby’s, but we’re getting into more philosophical topics like doctor-assisted suicide and more serious debates,” Hollifield said.

After having a team of mostly seniors last year, the group is slowly rebuilding by word of existing members and announcements. Be a part of the debate club by coming to their meeting next Wednesday from 3:20 to 4:00 pm.