The Independent Schools Debate League (ISDL) started in 2004 as a way for independent schools in the Los Angeles area to come together to have challenging and fun debate tournaments. Some of the finest schools in the Los Angeles area participate regularly in the ISDL, and many dozens of students come to monthly tournaments to engage each other on the important issues of the day.

There are currently 11 actively participating schools in the ISDL, with many more interested in joining. The league serves all independent schools in the greater Los Angeles area, stretching out to Pasadena and the north Valley, and south to Long Beach and Palos Verdes Peninsula. Competitions are open to member schools who serve students in grades 5-8.

The ISDL has a set of guidelines for parents. To download a copy, click here.

Like all MSPDP leagues, the ISDL has elected officers. In the 2007-2008 school year, the ISDL officers are:

• Katie Ward, President. Katie is the coach at Polytechnic in Pasadena.
• Ellen Hong, Secretary. Ellen is the middle school debate coach at Campbell Hall in Los Angeles.

For more information about the ISDL, or to contact ISDL president Katie Ward, write to Katie: katie.ward@polytechnic.org.