Homeschool Orators Pursuing Excellence

- HOPE -

What is HOPE?

HOPE stands for Homeschool Orators Pursuing Excellence. HOPE Club is a group of homeschooling families with a vision to develop communication and critical thinking skills in Christian students. This equips them to effectively communicate their ideas, thoughts, and beliefs, thereby making a positive impact on both the body of Christ and on our culture. We accomplish this through ongoing instruction, coaching, public speaking opportunities, and competitions, pursued in the context of Christian love.

"Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have."
~1 Peter 3:15

Where does HOPE Club meet?

HOPE Club meets at Fox Chapel Presbyterian Church. (Get Directions)

How often does HOPE meet?

We meet every other Friday, from September until April. In cases where we skip a week due to holidays or tournaments, the schedule may be pushed forward by a week. The speech classes are from 1:00-2:30, while the debate club meets from 2:30-4:00. For a current schedule, see Club Calendar.

Is HOPE Club only for homeschoolers?

Yes, we are only for homeschooling families. Not only is this because of our Vision statement, but also because of our relationship with National Christian Forensic and Communication Association (NCFCA). Students must be privately homeschooled, and not public cyber charter school or private school students.

Is there a fee to join HOPE Club?

Yes, in order to defray curriculum and general expenses there is a modest fee. Any tournaments run by HOPE are financed from separate tournament funds. No teacher or administrator at HOPE receives any remuneration for their contributions. For the current fees, see Club Registration.

How are the classes set up?

HOPE speech classes are for 4 year olds to 18 year olds. They are primarily set up by age, but experience can also influence placement. Each class uses age appropriate resources to facilitate critical thinking, listening and speaking skills, in line with our Vision. Debate club is for 13 to 18 year olds (or exceptional 12 year olds).

What if I have some children younger than 4 years old?

We have a nursery available during the speech classes, with parent volunteers.

What are the parents’ responsibilities in HOPE Club?

Parents are responsible to ensure that their children attend classes faithfully and complete homework and put forth their best for God’s glory. At least one parent is required to attend the classes with their children and to assist in the teaching. When a student competes in a tournament, his/her parent(s) is(are) required to judge in events other than those in which their child(ren) competes.

I know nothing about public speaking or debate. How can I teach or judge?

As a parent, you have been teaching your child to speak since their first word. However, we understand that being a “teacher” can be intimidating. Our classes are assigned Lead Teachers, who have already had experience at HOPE. New member parents are generally asked to assist in the classroom. If your child competes in a tournament, you will receive the necessary training to help judge.

How much time will my child spend on speech/debate?

The answer to this varies as much as the child. There will be homework assigned in classes. For the younger and non-competing children, it may only take a few hours a week. Older students who are competing in tournaments may spend hours writing, memorizing and scripting speeches. Usually, the same speech is given at multiple tournaments throughout the year, as the student sharpens all of its aspects.

Debate is more time consuming. First time debaters spend time learning the sport of debate, e.g. terms and theory. Furthermore, students may spend 5-10 hours per week researching the resolution topic and constructing arguments. Team Policy debate students work as a team with another student, so time is spent with their partner honing their arguments and developing team skills. High school credits can definitely be given in the following areas, depending upon the type of resolution and level of work: Debate Theory, Public Speaking, Current Events, Economics, Special Topic History, Government, etc.

Will my child be required to compete at tournaments?

Because of HOPE Club’s Vision, students ages 12 and older will be required to compete in a tournament and/or participate in public speaking opportunity outside of HOPE and their family. HOPE Club runs at least 2 local tournaments during the year. There are also opportunities for students to travel to other tournaments. The tournaments are the highlight of the year for the students and great fun! The greatest benefit to the student comes from going to tournaments and sharpening their skills and meeting new friends.

Where may I direct other questions?

We would like to hear any other questions you may have.
Contact HOPE Club through email

or by phone (724) 325-2276.