High school students today can be very impressive. If you want to see just how fluent, creative,and poised they are come and enjoy the semi-final and final rounds of this contest. It takes place at Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site. Admission to the Birthplace is $3.00, but there is no additonal charge for this program.
You will also learn a lot about Theodore Roosevelt, as these students have done their own research and will share their insights into such topics as Roosevelt the champion of the "strenuous life," big game hunter, Rough Rider, naturalist, police commissioner, or President.
The Theodore Roosevelt Public Speaking Contest, sponsored by the Theodore Roosevelt Association, dates back to 1925 and is the oldest program of its kind serving the New York City schools. It is dedicated to encouraging students in grades 9 through 12 to develop public speaking skills. These include developing, organizing and communicating ideas, critical thinking, independent research, and effective speech. Through public speaking students build the confidence, social awareness and leadership to help them achieve success in later life.
Every New York City high school is invited to enter one contestant. Applications, including the names of both the contestant and coach, must be received by April 21, 2006 by Dr. John Staudt, Executive Director, Theodore Roosevelt Association, PO Box 719, Oyster Bay, NY 11771. Telephone: 516-921-6319. E-mail: Jstaudt@theodoreroosevelt.org.
