Desert Schools Receive $10,000 Grant from BP America

Schools in the desert regions of Southern California will debate a series of energy topics in the 2008-2009 school year, thanks to a generous grant from the A+ for Energy program, sponsored by BP America. The $10,000 grant will go to James Workman teacher Kelley Bieringer to support middle and high school debating in the region.
This is the second A+ for Energy grant for Bieringer and the DVDL, and the first for the new Golden West Debate League, (GWDL), one of the pilot High School Public Debate Program leagues launched in 2008 along with its sister league in Washington, D.C..

“Over 150 students in the desert will benefit from the A+ for Energy grant because they will gain a deeper understanding of the pros and cons of renewable and non-renewable energy sources,” said Bieringer. “They will learn that there are both sides to these important issues as our country faces them daily. Students will be able to discuss energy sources with people of all ages while using facts to support their opinions.”

The grant will create a number of opportunities for students to function as school leaders and peer mentors on energy issues. DVDL and GWDL schools have an outstanding track record of promoting public debate and discussion in their school communities- in the 2007-2008 school year, DVDL and GWDL schools sponsored more than 70 public debates on controversial public issues. As part of the A+ For Energy partnership, DVDL and GWDL schools will sponsor public debates on energy issues at their school site, to give students an opportunity to model outstanding communication qualities and energize debaters about energy among students at their school.

"With the ever-increasing price of oil, global warming, and international competition for resources it is important for tomorrow's citizens to be informed on topics that will impact their lives," said Desert Springs Middle School teacher and DVDL league president Greg Paulk.

Topics to be researched and debated as part of the grant will include a variety of energy issues including “Environmentally, the Hoover Dam has done more good than harm,” “Solar panels should be required on all government buildings,” and “Hybrid cars do more harm than good.”

“This is a tremendous gift for students in both leagues,” said MSPDP Director Kate Shuster. “Kelley has been an outstanding coach of national champion debaters, a tireless volunteer, and an extraordinarily effective advocate for debating and discussion in the classroom and in the community. This grant will make it possible for students to participate in serious debates on some of the most important issues of the day.”

Learn more about BP America ’s A+ for Energy program.