Members of the Speyer Math Team compete against students at other schools in several prominent contests, including MOEMS, MATHCOUNTS, AMC 8 and AMC 10, AIME, the New York Math League, and GAIM (Girls’ Adventures in Math). Speyer students have won high honors in these competitions.

But contest-training is not all that they do. They also use practice time to explore intriguing and challenging problems in depth, and to develop technical proficiency beyond what is required in the classroom. A team member’s participation in interscholastic competition is optional. Some interscholastic contests (MATHCOUNTS, GAIM, and AIME) are accessible only through qualifying exams, but team practices are open to all interested Speyer students.Description text goes here

Middle school debate is quickly becoming one of the largest academic competitions in the country. Debate gives Speyer students the chance to meet and exchange ideas with their peers from schools all over the city and even from across the nation. Debate is an engaging way for students to learn about important societal issues and to advocate for their beliefs. Honing critical thinking skills, practicing in depth researching, and polishing their persuasive presentation skills are all an important part of debate.

Debate practice includes topic analysis and discussing everything from international relations to school policies. Team members also work on skill area drills and hold both formal and fun practice debates.

The MS debate team competes in parliamentary debate in both the Urban Debate League and New York Debate League, attending tournaments locally. Additionally, Speyer hosts scrimmages with nearby schools in a less formal setting. Preparation for tournaments requires substantial work outside of school and tournament participation requires occasional parent involvement as volunteer judges, for which training is provided. Speyer has a strong competitive record including multiple city and state championship titles. Students are not required to attend tournaments to be on the team, but they are expected to follow through on commitments if they decide to compete.

Students explore many different kinds of writing, sharpening their skills with words and expressing their ideas. Special emphasis on using our creativity and resourcefulness when writing.

Learn to think on your feet and make 'em laugh -- Improvisation is a physical and mental workout, and a ton of fun! Through improvisation games and exercises, students experience the power of saying Yes, build teamwork and communication skills, and have fun in a daring, respectful, creative environment.

This chess club is best for students rated 1200 or above, but is suitable for any student who wants to play tournaments and is committed to improving. This course, featuring the instruction by our faculty Grandmaster will offer our top students the opportunity to work and train together, and to build relationships with their teammates.

Study hall provides a quiet and relaxing space for students to focus on their extended assignments, ongoing projects, or other independent work. It can be a great way to get a jump start on work or an opportunity to wind down from the day with a good book. Study hall offers a supervised and comfortable space for students from all grades. Students may sign up for one or more days.