2026 Summer Rookie Camp Instructor - Elementary Public Speaking & Debate

Job DescriptionRookie Camp Instructor - Elementary Public Speaking & Debate Summer 2026Capitol Debate Summer CampsDrew University July 12 - July 23, 2026Who We AreCapitol Debate is a year-round organization dedicated exclusively to teaching public speaking and debate. For 20 years, we've helped more than 10,000 students build confidence, communication skills, and leadership through engaging, high-quality programs. Rookie Camp is our beginner program designed specifically for younger students, giving 8- and 9-year-olds a fun, supportive introduction to public speaking and debate through games, mini-debates, mock trials, and hands-on activities.About Rookie CampRookie Camp is built for young learners who are just beginning to find their voice. The program is designed specifically for ages 8-9, with no prior experience required, and focuses on building foundational communication skills through play-based learning. Campers participate in speaking games, storytelling, mini debates, fun mock trials, and a final speech showcase for families.The RoleWe are looking for a high-energy, engaging instructor to lead our Rookie Public Speaking & Debate Camp at the University of Washington. This role is ideal for elementary educators, especially teachers with experience working with 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students, who know how to create a classroom environment that is both structured and fun.This is a day camp teaching role for an educator who can connect with younger students, keep energy high, make learning interactive, and help children build confidence in a positive and encouraging setting.What You'll DoLead daily instruction for young campers in public speaking, beginner debate, speaking games, and hands-on communication activitiesCreate a fun, welcoming, and age-appropriate classroom environmentGuide students through interactive lessons, role play, storytelling, group activities, and mini-performance opportunitiesSupport campers as they build confidence, practice speaking skills, and prepare for their final showcaseWork closely with the camp team to create a safe, smooth, and exciting day camp experienceBring enthusiasm, patience, creativity, and strong classroom leadership every dayCamp Schedule & CommitmentThis role is for the Drew University Rookie Camp only. The Drew University camp will be hosted from July 12 - July 23, 2026. Rookie Camp runs for 9 total days, with Week 1 Monday-Friday and Week 2 Monday-Thursday, and the Rookie Camp daily hours are 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM.Commitment:Location: Drew University, Madison NJDates: July 12 - July 23, 2026Schedule: Monday-Friday (Week 1) and Monday-Thursday (Week 2)Must be able to commute to campus each dayHousing is not providedWho Should ApplyThis role is especially well-suited for:Elementary school teachers, especially those teaching 3rd, 4th, or 5th gradeEducators who thrive in a fun, high-energy, hands-on learning environmentTeachers who know how to make learning interactive and exciting for young studentsIndividuals with strong classroom management and a warm, encouraging presenceEducators who love helping children grow in confidence, communication, and self-expressionPreferred experience includes:Elementary classroom teachingSummer camp, enrichment, or youth program instructionExperience with speech, drama, debate, leadership, SEL, or presentation-based learning is a plusCompensation$1,750 for the full 2-week campLunch provided dailyNo housing providedWhy Teach with Capitol DebateTeach a program designed to help young students build confidence and communication skills earlyWork with a curriculum built around fun, age-appropriate public speaking and debate activitiesHelp students grow from shy participants into proud speakers by the end of campBe part of a mission-driven team that believes communication skills change livesRequirementsRequirementsExperience teaching or leading groups of elementary-aged studentsStrong classroom management and student engagement skillsAbility to bring enthusiasm, warmth, patience, and structure to a youth learning environmentAbility to commute to the University of Washington campus each dayStaff may be required to walk moderate distances on campus and work outdoors periodically in summer conditionsDisclaimerDue to the volume of applications received, we may not be able to respond to every inquiry. Capitol Debate is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Responsibilities may vary slightly based on camp needs, and staff should be prepared to support the overall success of the camp experience.