Through Community Event, JRP Discusses Teacher Certification Programs in the United States 

The John R. Park Debate Society teamed up with the American Council for Trustees and Alumni to host this spring's public discussion regarding emergency teaching certification. Throughout the event, chaired by ACTA representative Dr. Bryan Paul, student presented arguments for and against the evening's resolution: In the United States alternative pathways to teaching do more harm than good.

What: John R. Park Public Debate featuring ACTA

-Presented by the John R. Park Debate Society, the Department of Communication at the University of Utah, and the American Council for Trustees and ALumni

Who: The University of Utah’s John R. Park Debate Society and community members

When: Wednesday, March 26th 2025 @5:30pm 

Where: Gardner Commons 2900

In partnership with ACTA and their sister organization, Braver Angels Debate, the John R. Park Debate Society facilitated public discussion on emergency teacher certifications in the United States. Students shared arguments regarding teacher shortages, rural communities, teacher pay, quality of education, and representation amongst teachers. The public discussion format was started off by JRP debaters who presented arguments for and against the resolution. After presentation of evidence for both sides, audience members were able to participate in and further the discussion. The audience for this event was made up of university students, community members, and public school teachers. 

 

(Student Presenters: Jeremy Parrish, Aubrie Powers, Maria Manousakis, and Myra Hicks)