Recognizing the importance of respectful and principled debate, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that the winner of next year’s Ronald Reagan presidential debate at the Florida Civil Debate Initiative (FCDI) State Championships will be awarded a $50,000 scholarship and a trophy named after Charlie Kirk.
Runners-up will receive a $25,000 scholarship, two semifinalists will receive $15,000 each, and four quarterfinalists will each receive $10,000.
“We have worked hard to make Florida a national model for civics education,” said Governor DeSantis. “The Florida Citizenship and Debate Initiative reflects our commitment to fostering students’ appreciation of America’s founding principles. The winner of the next FCDI State Championship will earn the Charlie Kirk Award, renamed in honor of a young man who exemplifies patriotism, civil discourse, and open debate. These scholarships are a fitting tribute to his accomplishments.”
Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamousas praised the announcement, saying Florida continues to lead the nation in civics instruction.
“The addition of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Debate to FCDI gives our students even more opportunities to showcase their civics knowledge while engaging in respectful debate,” said Camousas. “Through FCDI and the Civic Literacy Excellence Initiative, we will ensure that the next generation understands and is equipped to uphold America’s founding principles.”
Philanthropy and national recognition
This scholarship is made possible by 10 years of philanthropy by Patricia Duggan of Clearwater, and its value has virtually doubled with the help of the Florida Prepaid Foundation. The Ronald Reagan Foundation will also invite the winner and runner-up to the National Ronald Reagan Presidential Debate in California.
The FCDI State Championship is scheduled to be held on April 5, 2026 at New College of Florida in Sarasota. Thousands of Florida students compete, participate in debates, and demonstrate civic virtues that reflect Florida’s growing reputation for excellence in civics education.
Expanding across the state under DeSantis
When the initiative began in 2020, only 59 teams from 11 districts participated. Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, FCDI has now expanded to more than 330 teams across all 67 school districts, including more than 125 new teams. This year’s students will compete in more than 30 tournaments around the state.
U.S. Government Civic Literacy Assessment for All High School Students (2021-2022 and Beyond). Civic literacy requirements for all students entering Florida universities in 2018-2019. Revised K-12 Civics and Government Standards. It will be implemented statewide in 2023-2024. Recognized by the Civics Seal of Excellence, we offer the first teacher training to the latest standards. A comprehensive K-12 civics curriculum. Available as both a core resource and a supplementary tool. Integrate civics instruction across other subjects to ensure foundational knowledge is provided to all students. Continued professional development through community civic literacy directors and coaches who provide direct support to teachers.
Florida officials say these programs solidify the state’s reputation as a national leader in civics education and prepare students to become informed, engaged citizens prepared to uphold our nation’s founding principles.
