The confidence and poise required to deliver a speech or thoughtfully debate an idea are highly valued by college admissions professionals and future employers alike—and they will become increasingly valuable as instructors and professors turn to oral exams in an effort to remove AI as an element in student work. Whether presenting ideas, engaging in discussion, or defending a point of view, students benefit from learning how to speak clearly, think critically, and communicate with confidence.

At Royal Fireworks Online Learning, students can develop these skills in our live online Speech and Debate course with Kevin O’Brien, an experienced educator as well as an actor who brings expert insight into presence, delivery, and engaging an audience. This course combines the study of great speeches with hands-on practice, giving students both the knowledge and the experience they need to become effective speakers.

Students in this course move beyond theory; they actively practice speaking, debating, and refining their ideas in a supportive environment. The result is greater confidence, stronger critical thinking, and the ability to communicate effectively in any setting.

Speech and Debate
Student Ages: 14–18
Class Meetings: Wednesdays, 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time
Dates: September 9 – December 16, 2026; January 13 – May 12, 2027
Cost: $575 per semester/$1,100 full year

Course Highlights: 
– Study famous speeches and debates by writers across history, from Socrates to Martin Luther King, Jr.
– Analyze argumentation, structure, and rhetorical devices.
– Deliver individual speeches and participate in live debates.
– Build confidence speaking extemporaneously and addressing an audience.
– Receive personalized coaching and feedback to improve performance.

Want to know more about Kevin O’Brien? You can learn more about him and his teaching style by watching his virtual open house video.

Installment Pay Option: We offer installment payment plans at no additional cost. For more information and to enroll, visit the Online Learning page.

As always, if you have questions or need assistance in selecting a course, feel free to call us at (845) 726-4444. We’re here to help! Our phone lines are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.

Happy learning!
The Royal Fireworks Team