A total of 11 students from eight schools participated in the Rainy River District School Board Speech Contest on May 23, 2018 hosted at Robert Moore School in Fort Frances. Students delivered outstanding speeches on a wide variety of topics to educators, family, peers, and community members.
Fort Frances High School student, Jenna Bailey, achieved first place for her speech entitled "Gender Equality," while Sturgeon Creek Alternative Program student, Kayla Pater, earned second place for her speech on "Crazy Truths," and Robert Moore School student, Ayiana Gagne, captured third place for her speech on "The Bermuda Triangle."
The judges were RobRoy Donaldson (Secondary Curriculum/Experiential Learning Coordinator), Heather Latter (Community Outreach Officer); and June Caul (Fort Frances Town Councillor). Johnathan Price (Host, 93.1 The Border) and Monica Armour (ETFO Rainy River Teacher Local) were the questioners, asking each contestant a question following their speech. Lonna Oster (Speech/Language Coordinator) was the timer.
Public speaking can be a powerful tool to use for purposes such as motivation, influence, persuasion, or simply entertainment. Rainy River District School Board Vice-Principal of School Support Services, Char Bliss, recognized all participating students for their demonstrated skills in public speaking, and the evening was a celebration of all the student talent that there is within the School Board.
"All of the contestants were thoroughly prepared with well-written speeches and delivered them with confidence and poise," said Mrs. Bliss. "The public speaking skills these students demonstrated are remarkable and will certainly serve them well in the future, whatever career paths they may choose."
All contestants received certificates for their participation, and awards were presented to the top three achievers.
Press release (PDF)