Speak Up
Why Speak Up?
Public speaking is the skill students fear most and need most. In Speak Up, middle schoolers learn to organize their thoughts, command a room, and move an audience — and they practice until it feels natural. By Friday, every student has written and delivered a real speech on an issue they chose and care about.
What students learn
- How to structure a persuasive speech that actually lands
- Ethos, pathos, and logos — the three engines of persuasion
- How to read and win over an audience
- How to manage nerves and stage fright with real techniques
- How to speak with clarity, presence, and confidence
Topics are representative; final topics are announced closer to summer. Explore the full day-by-day schedule →
Your Speech
Choose an issue you genuinely care about. In 3–4 minutes, convince your audience to see it your way — and to do something about it. Your speech needs a clear position, at least three strong reasons, real evidence, and an honest answer to the people who'd disagree. End by telling us exactly what you want us to do.
Ready for Speak Up?
Each week is capped at 20 students. A $100 deposit reserves your child's spot (it counts toward tuition), adding a second week saves money — and registrations completed by April 1, 2027 get 10% off.