Stratford Altadena Students Explore the Art of Public Speaking in a Recent Recitation Festival and Debate Society Courthouse Visit
Stratford Altadena students have been busy honing their public speaking skills on a larger stage over the past month with a campus Recitation Festival and newly formed Debate Society. During April, Poetry Month, Stratford students in Kindergarten through Middle School participated in the school’s annual Recitation Festival, which allowed them to stand on stage before an audience of peers and family members to present their chosen works. From classic poetry to powerful speeches, recitation performances reflected depth, courage, and a strong connection to the chosen themes. It was a beautiful reminder of how words can inspire, challenge, and bring people together.
Stratford Altadena Middle School students have also taken their public speaking skills to a new level by forming a Debate Society. This platform allows them to develop their communication skills further as they learn formal argumentation, compete in mock trials, and participate in debate competitions. Last week, the Debate Society took a field trip to a Pasadena courthouse, where they had the opportunity to experience what it is like to speak inside a real courtroom. Students learned firsthand how the power of communication impacts important real-world decisions every day.
What is the benefit of practicing public speaking? Oration is an important skill for children to practice. It helps build self-confidence, improves critical thinking, supports self-expression, and develops social skills. While it may seem to come more naturally to some, it is a skill that can be learned and fine-tuned over time. With practice, students improve their elocution, learning proper pronunciation, articulation, and vocal delivery to communicate more clearly and effectively.
Starting in Kindergarten, Stratford students begin reading aloud and reciting poetry; they continue to expand their repertoire, reciting verse, essays, and even their own writing. Over time, this powerful “soft skill” develops, and students feel more comfortable speaking in front of a group with confidence and authority. Beyond memorization, students are actively learning about the power of their voice, their presence, and the meaning and message they are relaying.
To learn more about Stratford’s Early Preschool through Grade 8 programs, which also include Mandarin Bilingual Preschool/Pre-K and Mandarin Specialty language offerings, visit StratfordSchools.com/Altadena or email Katya Maillette at Kmaillette@stratfordschools.com to schedule a tour.
Check out summer camp at Stratford! There’s still time to sign up Summer@Stratford with Roar and Explore Day Camp, Kindergarten Prep, and Grade Level Academic Bridge Camps. Now enrolling PS-8G, with weekly options available. Register for summer camp at Stratfordschools.com/summer.
