2026 Summer Rookie Camp Instructor – Elementary Public Speaking & Debate

Rookie Camp Instructor – Elementary Public Speaking & Debate | Summer 2026

Capitol Debate Summer Camps

University of Washington | July 27 – August 6, 2026

Who We Are

Capitol 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 Camp

Rookie 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 Role

We 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 Do

• Lead daily instruction for young campers in public speaking, beginner debate, speaking games, and hands-on communication activities

• Create a fun, welcoming, and age-appropriate classroom environment

• Guide students through interactive lessons, role play, storytelling, group activities, and mini-performance opportunities

• Support campers as they build confidence, practice speaking skills, and prepare for their final showcase

• Work closely with the camp team to create a safe, smooth, and exciting day camp experience

• Bring enthusiasm, patience, creativity, and strong classroom leadership every day

Camp Schedule & Commitment

This role is for the University of Washington Rookie Camp only. The University of Washington will be hosted from July 27 – August 6, 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: University of Washington campus

• Dates: July 27 – August 6, 2026

• Schedule: Monday–Friday (Week 1) and Monday–Thursday (Week 2)

• Must be able to commute to campus each day
  

• Housing is not provided
  

Who Should Apply

This role is especially well-suited for:

• Elementary school teachers, especially those teaching 3rd, 4th, or 5th grade
  

• Educators who thrive in a fun, high-energy, hands-on learning environment

• Teachers who know how to make learning interactive and exciting for young students

• Individuals with strong classroom management and a warm, encouraging presence

• Educators who love helping children grow in confidence, communication, and self-expression

Preferred experience includes:

• Elementary classroom teaching

• Summer camp, enrichment, or youth program instruction

• Experience with speech, drama, debate, leadership, SEL, or presentation-based learning is a plus

Compensation

• $1,750 for the full 2-week camp

• Lunch provided daily
  

• No housing provided
  

Why Teach with Capitol Debate

• Teach a program designed to help young students build confidence and communication skills early

• Work with a curriculum built around fun, age-appropriate public speaking and debate activities

• Help students grow from shy participants into proud speakers by the end of camp

• Be part of a mission-driven team that believes communication skills change lives

Requirements

Requirements

• Experience teaching or leading groups of elementary-aged students

• Strong classroom management and student engagement skills

• Ability to bring enthusiasm, warmth, patience, and structure to a youth learning environment

• Ability to commute to the University of Washington campus each day

• Staff may be required to walk moderate distances on campus and work outdoors periodically in summer conditions

Disclaimer

Due 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.

Job Type: Temporary, Seasonal