There will be five General Sessions during Stoa Family Academy. They are designed to be of interest to all Stoa members. We strongly encourage you to attend these sessions as they will not be available as part of the Digital Pass.
Session #1: The Culture of Stoa
Date & Time: Friday at 8:15am PT; 9:15am MT; 10:15am CT; 11:15am ET
This General Session will explore the foundational principles of Stoa's culture and how we can work together to pass it on to future generations of Stoa families and competitors. We will discuss topics such as the unique characteristics that make our organization special, how to incorporate Stoa's culture in your club, whether your club is new or has been around since the beginning, and how we can preserve what is important in our culture while also embracing an ever-changing world and homeschool environment. Presented by Lynda Sloneker.
Session #2: Above Reproach: Maintaining Your Integrity
Date & Time: Friday at 1:00pm PT, 2:00pm MT, 3:00pm CT, 4:00pm ET
What is the goal of Speech and Debate? How do we achieve that goal? In this lecture, we will discuss the ultimate goal of training our students to be servants of the King and launch into the world to make an impact for the Kingdom of God. In order to do this we must not compromise our values, instead, we must perform this activity with the highest level of honor and integrity. Presented by Danny Lyda and Anna Plummer.
Session #3: Getting Dads Involved (Parents)
Date & Time: Friday at 6:00pm PT, 7:00pm MT, 8:00pm CT, 9:00pm ET
Join our newest Stoa Board member, Wayne Johnson, along with Peter Fear and Alex Arroyave, as they share ideas and inspiration for getting more dads involved in the important work of our clubs and our league.
Session #3: Looking Beyond - Servant Hearts (Students)
Date & Time: Friday at 6:00pm PT, 7:00pm MT, 8:00pm CT, 9:00pm ET
This student session will focus on how you can use the skills you are learning in Stoa to start serving your community and your world right where you are at this moment. The ultimate reason for learning the skills we are all working so hard to grow and develop is to serve a lost world for His glory. Come and be inspired to serve in your local communities through Speech and Debate.
Session #4: Principles of Leadership
Date & Time: Sat at 8:30am PT, 9:30am MT, 10:30am CT, 11:30am ET
This general session explores leadership principles rooted in biblical teachings, tailored for Christian homeschool families involved in Stoa. We'll discuss:
- The biblical foundation of servant leadership
- Developing character and integrity in young speakers and debaters
- Balancing competitive drive with Christian values
- Applying leadership skills in family, community, and future careers
- Mentoring and discipleship within the Stoa community
We will gain insights into nurturing leadership qualities that honor God while excelling in speech and debate activities. We'll explore how these skills extend beyond competitions to shape future Christian leaders.
Session #5: Town Hall with Stoa's Board of Directors (Parents)
Date & Time: Saturday at 5:30pm PT, 6:30pm MT, 7:30pm CT, 8:30pm ET
We want to hear from you! We will have an open discussion on a wide variety of topics during this Town Hall meeting. Come with your questions, thoughts, and ideas!
Session #5: Alumni Roundtable (Students)
Date & Time: Saturday at 5:30pm PT, 6:30pm MT, 7:30pm CT, 8:30pm ET
Students, come and spend some quality time with our panel of alumni who are eager to share with you about life after Stoa and how Speech and Debate has impacted them into their adult years.