Taryn Day
Manhattan,KS
Summary
Experienced debate educator and student leader with a strong background in mentorship and community development. Currently an Assistant Debate Coach at Shawnee Mission Northwest High School, focusing on enhancing students' strategic thinking, research, and communication skills. Previous roles include Resident and Lab Assistant at Kansas State University Debate Camp, providing intensive training and support for high school debaters. In addition, my experience as a Lead Camp Counselor with Johnson County Parks and Recreation strengthened my ability to manage group dynamics and create inclusive, growth-oriented spaces. As a sixth-year debater and current sophomore at Kansas State University, I’m passionate about helping young debaters reach their maximum potential in both competitive excellence and meaningful community engagement.
Overview
1
1
year of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Debate Coach
Shawnee Mission Northwest High School
Shawnee, KS
08.2024 - Current
- Assisted in preparing students for debates through research and practice sessions.
- Organized schedules for team meetings and competitions.
- Collaborated with head coach to develop debate practice materials and excercises.
- Provided feedback on student performances to enhance argumentation skills.
- Coordinated logistics for attending local and statewide debate tournaments.
Resident & Lab Assistant
Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS
07.2025 - 08.2025
- Facilitated resident engagement through organizing community-building activities.
- Assisted in conflict resolution among residents to maintain a positive living environment.
- Conducted regular floor and room checks.
- Judged debates and provided feedback for students.
- Gave lectures on various debate topics.
- Developed assignments for students within lab.
- Evaluated student assignments and provided constructive feedback on performance.
Lead Camp Counselor
Johnson County Parks And Recreation
Lenexa, Kansas
06.2024 - 08.2025
- Supervised daily camp activities and ensured safety protocols were followed.
- Planned and organized age-appropriate recreational programs for diverse groups.
- Managed conflict resolution among campers to maintain a positive environment.
- Communicated regularly with parents regarding camper progress and activities.
- Maintained records of attendance, disciplinary issues, and other relevant data.
- Organized and managed recreational activities for campers.
- Assisted in the planning of special events onsite.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Communications
Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS05-2028
High School Diploma -
Shawnee Mission Northwest High School.
Shawnee, KS05-2024
Skills
- Effective communication
- Team building
- Project management
- Event planning
- Student engagement
- Time management
- Safety management
- Procedural adherence
- Issue identification and resolution
References
- Ken King, Director of Debate at Shawnee Mission Northwest High School - kennethking@smsd.org
- Alex McVey, Director of Debate at Kansas State University - jalexandermcvey@ksu.edu
- Samantha Porras, Director of JCPRD at Lenexa Hills Elementary School - Samantha.Porras@jocogov.org
Timeline
Resident & Lab Assistant
Kansas State University
07.2025 - 08.2025
Assistant Debate Coach
Shawnee Mission Northwest High School
08.2024 - Current
Lead Camp Counselor
Johnson County Parks And Recreation
06.2024 - 08.2025
Bachelor of Science - Communications
Kansas State University
High School Diploma -
Shawnee Mission Northwest High School.