Gavyn Purvis named Champion of the Ronald Reagan Debate, received a $50,000 scholarship and trophy named in honor of Charlie Kirk. Commissioner Kamoutsas with Philanthropist Patricia Duggan and Representative Jennifer Canady, strong supporters of civics and debate. Commissioner Kamoutsas speaking to the attendees and participants of the 2026 Florida Civics and Debate Initiative State Championship. Sarasota, Fla., April 21, 2026 – Florida’s top student debaters competed at the

On February 17, more than 100 speech and debate student leaders, coaches and parents from around the state gathered in Tallahassee for the fourth annual FCDI Day at the Capitol to experience state government firsthand during the 2026 legislative session. The energy was undeniable! The day opened on the Florida Capitol’s House Chamber floor, where the students participated in a mock session. From introducing a bill to debating and voting on it, they got a hands-on look at how

Orlando, Fla., January 23, 2026 — Nearly 600 students from across Florida and the nation gathered in Orlando this past weekend to compete in the 5 th Annual Great Debate: Florida’s National Civics and Debate Championship. Participation in the championship has nearly quadrupled since the inaugural event held five years ago. “Florida continues to lead the nation in civics education, and the growth of The Great Debate proves that Florida’s approach to civics and debate is a mo

The 9-12 Champion of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Debate will receive a $50,000 scholarship and trophy named in honor of Charlie Kirk SARASOTA, Fla. —Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the winner of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Debate at the upcoming Florida Civics and Debate Initiative (FCDI) State Championship will be awarded $50,000 and a trophy named in honor of Charlie Kirk to underscore the critical importance of teaching students the value of respectful debate.