Help Students Learn to Speak Up for Their Future

Learning to speak well before audiences is a skill that will serve students well as they move through high school and college and into their careers. Accomplished speakers understand how to handle college and job interviews, will be ready to give dynamic class presentations, and know how to pursue leadership opportunities throughout their lives.

The Speech and Debate Honor Society, National Forensic League, is dedicated to sparking community, insight, recognition, leadership, and success among students. The League has resources and professional development opportunities available to help schools get involved in its interscholastic contests for speech and debate. Optimist International is another organization that promotes excellence in public speaking. Each year, local Optimist clubs invite students in their region to compete (usually in the months of March and April) by giving four to five minute speeches on a specific topic. Winning students receive local, district, and state awards.

Optimist Oratorical Competition

Your students, who were under 19 years of age on December 31, 2010, are eligible to enter the Optimist International Oratorical Competition. The topic for the 2011-2012 contest is: “How My Optimism Helps Me Overcome Obstacles.” Speeches must be between four and five minutes and follow the guidelines exactly. If your school hasn’t been notified about this competition, contact an Optimist Club in your region because the speeches are first judged at the local level. District awards for winners will include two $2500 scholarships or three scholarships of $2500, $1500, and $1000. For additional information, rules, and entry form, go to the Optimist International site and download the speech pdf. Contact your local Optimist Club about dates for local, regional, and district level competitions. [These are usually held in March or April.]