I went to a middle school debate tournament on Saturday and I overheard one girl who sounded exactly like Ja'mie from "Summer Heights High." I had to laugh, but truly, it was shocking.

I couldn't do debate in high school. It was way too scary, and the aggressive mean kids were the ones who seemed to be into it the most. I was far too wimpy to argue and defend and rebut and all that. So I took drama classes where you could be sort of prepared. Sort of.

I watched some of my students debate against some very tough opponents on Saturday and I was pretty impressed with their ability to think on their feet and not cower in vomitous fear. That would have been my reaction. The school I teach at is not into awards and ceremonies, so when the contestants at the tournament were given their trophies, it made me realize once again how glad I am to work at a progressive school that promotes and values creative, critical thinking and not stomping and shoving your way to first place. I wish I had gone to a school like the one where I am a teacher. Sigh.