Academic Activities in Reston, VA

For Grades 2–4 5-Session Series This super fun and high-energy 5-session class helps young speakers learn to think fast, speak boldly, and express themselves with confidence in ANY situation! Through exciting games, silly prompts, movement, and tons of speaking practice, students learn the exact tools they need to speak up without fear. At Highest Speak, we work on WHAT to say, HOW to structure it, and HOW to say anything at ANY time with confidence! ⭐ How Each 1-Hour Class Works 1. High-Energy Ice Breaker & Warm-Up We start with fun, fast, confidence-boosting games that get kids moving, laughing, and ready to speak. Instant comfort → instant participation. 2. Fun Lesson of the Day A quick, kid-friendly lesson teaches one impromptu skill—how to organize thoughts fast, how to start strong, or how to speak clearly without overthinking. Short, simple, and immediately useful. 3. Small-Group Practice + LOTS of Speaking Kids jump into pairs or small groups for fast-paced speaking rounds and silly challenges. Every child speaks multiple times each class and receives warm, supportive, personalized feedback. All sessions are led by our expert Highest Speak instructors, ensuring your child gets focused attention and guidance in a fun, supportive environment. For any more than 10 students, we always have two instructors to ensure plenty of individual attention and feedback. This lively, upbeat class helps kids find their brave voice, think on their feet, and shine—one fun, high-energy moment at a time!

🎤 Impromptu Speaking & Communication Skills: Level 2 For Grades 5–8 (For Level 2, students MUST have taken our Impromptu Speech Class between 2024-2025 or be recommended by our instructors for Level 2. Please email info@highestspeak.com for eligibility questions.) 5-Session Series Level 2 is a high-energy, fast-paced, skill-building series designed for middle schoolers ready to take their speaking abilities to the next level. Students tackle longer 1–3 minute speeches, more challenging prompts, and advanced structure and performance techniques—all in a fun, supportive, and motivating environment. At Highest Speak, we teach students WHAT to say, HOW to structure it, and HOW to say anything at ANY time with confidence, clarity, and purpose. ⭐ How Each 1-Hour Class Works 1. High-Energy Ice Breaker & Warm-Up We start with engaging, fast-moving activities that help students loosen up, sharpen quick-thinking skills, and get comfortable speaking right away. Energy ON → hesitation OFF. 2. Level 2 Skill of the Day (More Depth + More Challenge) A short, focused lesson introduces a more advanced impromptu skill, such as: building longer, organized 1–3 minute responses, adding stronger openings and impactful conclusions, defending opinions with clarity, elevating vocal delivery and performance, speaking under time pressure with poise. Clear, practical, and instantly applicable in school, interviews, and daily conversations. 3. Small-Group Practice + High-Impact Speaking Rounds Students jump into pairs or small groups for structured 1–3 minute impromptu rounds using higher-level prompts, deeper thinking questions, and more sophisticated frameworks. Everyone speaks multiple times each class and receives targeted, supportive feedback to strengthen structure, confidence, and performance. All sessions are taught by our expert Highest Speak instructors, who ensure each student gets individualized guidance, encouragement, and challenge in a fun, high-energy environment. Level 2 helps middle schoolers think sharply, speak clearly, perform confidently, and communicate with depth—one bold, high-energy moment at a time!

🗣️ Friday Mic Mania Night Presents: "Highest Cheer...A Student Showcase and Holiday Fun!" Friday, December 12 | 5:30-7PM (Mandatory Rehearsal: Choose one — Sunday, Dec. 7 from 11am-1pm Tuesday, Dec. 9 from 5:30-7:30PM Ready to spread some holiday cheer, Highest Speak style? Calling all Winter 2025 Highest Speak Students! You must be registered for a Winter 2025 course to participate. It’s your time to shine (and sleigh)! Join us for our festive Friday Mic Mania Night, a fun and informal evening where students can perform: ✨ A favorite piece from their current or past public speaking class 📝 An original piece they’ve written — holiday-themed or not! 🎄 Students must attend one mandatory rehearsal on either Sunday, Dec. 7 (11 AM–1 PM), Tuesday, Dec. 9 (6–8 PM), or Wednesday, Dec. 10 (6–8 PM). Students will be coached and prepped for performance. All pieces must be 2 minutes or less — longer pieces will be trimmed during rehearsal. You’ll select your rehearsal date at checkout. 🎤 On Friday, Dec. 12 from 5:30 to 7:00 PM, students will perform for a small and supportive audience — each performer may bring up to 2 guests. 🎁 Expect some surprise fun! Instructors may perform a holiday-themed piece or lead festive games for students and families. 🪑 We’ll provide a mix of chairs and cozy floor pillows 💬 No microphones — just big voices and bold performances! ⚠️ Limited performance spots available! 📌 This event is only open to enrolled Winter Highest Speak students — sign up ASAP to reserve your spot!

Duration: 5 Weeks | 1 Hour and 15 Minutes Per Class Get ready for a high-energy, fun-packed experience where your tween/teen will discover the power of persuasion in the most exciting way! Persuasive speaking is a life-changing skill that helps kids express their ideas with confidence, influence others, and make their voices heard. Through lively games, engaging lessons, and creative challenges, your child will master the art of persuasion while having an absolute blast! LEARN • Explore the elements of persuasive speech and writing through interactive lessons and fun, real-world class discussions. • Be introduced to simple debate techniques in a playful and approachable way that boosts confidence. • Learn how to quickly structure both impromptu and prepared persuasive speeches in dynamic, fast-paced activities. • Discover techniques to captivate an audience with humor, creativity, and confidence. • Learn how to persuade different audiences with the right content while keeping things fun and engaging. • Learn how to better manage public speaking anxiety and nervousness, building confidence to speak up and present with ease. • Build a solid understanding of structure, tone, and delivery for persuasive presentations in a lively, supportive environment. DO • Work on both impromptu and prepared pitches, presentations, and speeches with high-energy practice activities. • Create imaginative and hilarious pitches with teammates for collaborative, laughter-filled challenges. • Participate in energetic demonstrations, role-playing, and interactive games that make learning unforgettable. • Receive individualized feedback, regardless of your child’s starting skill level, to ensure they improve in every session. IMPROVE • Sharpen public speaking and persuasion skills through instant feedback and hands-on practice. • Use the feedback instantly to ensure that the student captures it and applies it right away. • Benefit from personalized coaching that challenges and supports every student from their baseline. • Develop confidence, creativity, and clarity in expressing ideas, whether at school or in everyday life. Also, for classes with more than 10 students, two enthusiastic instructors will lead the sessions to guarantee every child gets the attention and feedback they deserve. Oh, and did we mention? Our instructors are professional educators AND performers who bring tons of energy and humor to every class. Your child will laugh, learn, and leave feeling excited for the next session! Please note: Occasional assignments will be given to maximize the class benefits.

🎤 Persuasive Speaking: Level 2 Duration: 5 Weeks | 1 Hour Per Class Prerequisite: Students must have taken the 2024–2025 Persuasive Speaking class OR be recommended by a Highest Speak instructor. For eligibility questions, please email info@highestspeak.com . Get ready for a high-energy, challenge-packed series designed to take persuasive speaking skills to the next level! Level 2 dives deeper into structure, reasoning, clarity, and performance. Students will work with longer 1–3 minute speeches, more complex prompts, and higher-level persuasive strategies—all while keeping the fun, creativity, and excitement that Highest Speak is known for. This course is perfect for students ready for more challenge, more depth, and more speaking time. ⭐ LEARN • Dive deeper into the elements of powerful persuasive speaking, with more advanced frameworks and techniques. • Strengthen simple debate and reasoning skills in a fun, age-appropriate way. • Learn how to quickly and clearly structure longer 1–3 minute persuasive speeches, both prepared and impromptu. • Explore how to hook an audience with stronger openings, examples, humor, and emotional appeal. • Understand how to tailor persuasion to different audiences with the right tone, structure, and approach. • Practice strategies to manage nerves and speak with calm, confident energy—even under time pressure. • Build a more advanced understanding of organization, tone, evidence, and delivery in a supportive, encouraging environment. ⭐ DO • Create both impromptu and prepared 1–3 minute persuasive speeches using Level 2 prompts and frameworks. • Work on high-energy challenges, persuasive “pitches,” and creative team activities. • Participate in dynamic role-plays, demonstrations, mini debates, and interactive games that make learning unforgettable. • Receive targeted, individualized feedback designed to stretch each student from their current level and help them grow every session. ⭐ IMPROVE • Strengthen persuasive structure, clarity, confidence, and delivery through instant application and practice. • Learn to take feedback and implement it immediately in the next speaking round. • Benefit from personalized coaching that challenges advanced students and supports those still growing. • Build confidence, creativity, organization, and expressive skills—at school, socially, and in everyday communication. ⭐ INSTRUCTOR EXPERIENCE For classes with more than 10 students, two expert, high-energy instructors will lead the sessions to ensure every child receives ample individualized feedback and speaking time. Our instructors are professional educators and performers who bring energy, humor, and warmth to every class. Students leave each session laughing, learning, and excited for the next challenge. Please note: Occasional at-home assignments may be given to maximize progress and reinforce new skills.

🎤 Impromptu Speaking & Confidence: Level 2 For Grades 2–4 (Level 2 students MUST have taken our Impromptu Speech Class between 2024-2025 or be recommend by instructors to take. Please email info@highestspeak.com on questions of eligibility.) 5-Session Series Level 2 is the super fun, high-energy next step for young speakers who are ready for a bigger challenge! Students build on Level 1 skills with longer speaking times (1–3 minutes), more challenging prompts, and a stronger focus on structure and performance—all while keeping the class playful, supportive, and full of excitement. At Highest Speak, we work on WHAT to say, HOW to structure it, and HOW to say anything at ANY time with confidence! ⭐ How Each 1-Hour Class Works 1. High-Energy Ice Breaker & Warm-Up We kick things off with upbeat, silly, get-moving games that help students feel relaxed, energized, and excited to speak. Fun → comfort → confidence. 2. Skill of the Day (Level 2 Challenges!) A quick, kid-friendly lesson introduces a Level 2 impromptu skill like: how to organize ideas clearly for longer speeches, how to build strong openings and closings, how to add examples or opinions with structure, or how to stay confident during 1–3 minute speaking rounds. Still easy to understand — just more depth and more growth. 3. Small-Group Practice + LOTS of Longer Speaking Students jump into small groups for fast-paced, fun, and focused speaking rounds using longer speaking times (1–3 minutes) and more advanced prompts. Every student speaks multiple times per class and receives warm, encouraging, personalized feedback on structure, clarity, and performance. All sessions are taught by our expert Highest Speak instructors, ensuring a joyful, supportive environment where kids feel safe to stretch their skills and SHINE. Level 2 helps young speakers think on their feet, speak with clarity, and perform with confidence—one fun, high-energy moment at a time!

For Grades 2–4 5-Session Series This super fun and high-energy 5-session class helps our tweens and teens learn to think fast, speak boldly, and express themselves with confidence in ANY situation! Through exciting games, silly prompts, movement, and tons of speaking practice, students learn the exact tools they need to speak up without fear. Whether in the classroom, on the playground, or communicating with adults, this skill WILL help them be the best version of themselves. At Highest Speak, we work on WHAT to say, HOW to structure it, and HOW to say anything at ANY time with confidence! ⭐ How Each 1-Hour Class Works 1. High-Energy Ice Breaker & Warm-Up We start with fun, fast, confidence-boosting games that get kids moving, laughing, and ready to speak. Instant comfort → instant participation. 2. Fun Lesson of the Day A quick, kid-friendly lesson teaches one key impromptu skill—how to organize thoughts fast, how to start strong, or how to speak clearly without overthinking. Short, simple, and immediately useful. 3. Small-Group Practice + LOTS of Speaking Kids jump into pairs or small groups for fast-paced speaking rounds and fun challenges. Every child speaks multiple times each class and receives warm, supportive, personalized feedback! All sessions are led by our expert Highest Speak instructors, ensuring your child gets focused attention and guidance in a fun, supportive environment. For any more than 10 students, we always have two instructors to ensure plenty of individual attention and feedback. This lively, upbeat class helps kids find their brave voice, think on their feet, and shine—one fun, high-energy moment at a time!

🎤 Sky Divers: Intro to Debate (Grades 2–4) Who says 2nd–4th graders can’t learn debate? This fun and high-energy 6-week class introduces young students to the basics of debate in a way that feels playful, creative, and confidence-boosting. Students learn what debate is, how to listen to others, and how to share their ideas respectfully and clearly. Throughout the course, students practice building simple arguments, learning how to organize their thoughts using a kid-friendly structure, and explaining their ideas using strong reasons. They’ll also get experience delivering both written arguments and impromptu (on-the-spot) arguments, helping them think quickly and speak confidently. Through games, partner activities, silly prompts, and guided practice, students discover that speaking up can be fun—and that their ideas matter. Each child receives plenty of encouragement and individualized feedback to help them grow as thoughtful, confident communicators!

🎄 Holiday Pitch: A Persuasive Speaking Workshop for Grades 9–12 3.5-Hour Workshop | Festive, Fun, and Full of Confidence-Building In this high-energy holiday workshop, students will learn how to persuade with purpose—through laughter, games, and festive fun! Using holiday-themed prompts and activities, students will explore the fundamentals of persuasive speaking in a playful, non-intimidating environment. 🔑 Workshop Highlights: - Learn the Structure of Persuasive Speeches and how to adjust messaging based on the audience. - Practice Both Prepared and Impromptu Persuasive Speaking, using real-time feedback. - Give and Receive Peer and Instructor Feedback to refine content, tone, and delivery. - We’ll pitch ideas, debate holiday favorites, and craft convincing arguments—all while building speaking confidence and having a blast. Perfect for teens who want to boost their skills for school, interviews, college prep, or life in general. 🎁 Come ready to speak, laugh, and bring your holiday cheer—it’s time to make your pitch!

🗣️ Friday Mic Mania Night Presents: "Highest Cheer...A Student Showcase and Holiday Fun!" Friday, December 12 | 7:30-9pm (Mandatory Rehearsal: Choose one — Sunday, Dec. 7 from 3-5pm Wednesday, Dec. 10 from 6-8pm Ready to spread some holiday cheer, Highest Speak style? Calling all Winter 2025 Highest Speak Students! You must be registered for a Winter 2025 course to participate. It’s your time to shine (and sleigh)! Join us for our festive Friday Mic Mania Night, a fun and informal evening where students can perform: ✨ A favorite piece from their current or past public speaking class 📝 An original piece they’ve written — holiday-themed or not! 🎄 Students must attend one mandatory rehearsal on either Sunday, Dec. 7 (11 AM–1 PM), Tuesday, Dec. 9 (6–8 PM), or Wednesday, Dec. 10 (6–8 PM). Students will be coached and prepped for performance. All pieces must be 2 minutes or less — longer pieces will be trimmed during rehearsal. You’ll select your rehearsal date at checkout. 🎤 On Friday, Dec. 12 from 5:30 to 7:00 PM, students will perform for a small and supportive audience — each performer may bring up to 2 guests. 🎁 Expect some surprise fun! Instructors may perform a holiday-themed piece or lead festive games for students and families. 🪑 We’ll provide a mix of chairs and cozy floor pillows 💬 No microphones — just big voices and bold performances! ⚠️ Limited performance spots available! 📌 This event is only open to enrolled Winter Highest Speak students — sign up ASAP to reserve your spot!

Duration: 5 Weeks | 1 Hour Per Class Get ready for a high-energy, fun-packed experience where your child will discover the power of persuasion in the most exciting way! Persuasive speaking is a life-changing skill that helps kids express their ideas with confidence, influence others, and make their voices heard. Through lively games, engaging lessons, and creative challenges, your child will master the art of persuasion while having an absolute blast! LEARN • Explore the elements of persuasive speech and writing through interactive lessons and fun, real-world class discussions. • Be introduced to simple debate techniques in a playful and approachable way that boosts confidence. • Learn how to quickly structure both impromptu and prepared persuasive speeches in dynamic, fast-paced activities. • Discover techniques to captivate an audience with humor, creativity, and confidence. • Learn how to persuade different audiences with the right content while keeping things fun and engaging. • Learn how to better manage public speaking anxiety and nervousness, building confidence to speak up and present with ease. • Build a solid understanding of structure, tone, and delivery for persuasive presentations in a lively, supportive environment. DO • Work on both impromptu and prepared pitches, presentations, and speeches with high-energy practice activities. • Create imaginative and hilarious pitches with teammates for collaborative, laughter-filled challenges. • Participate in energetic demonstrations, role-playing, and interactive games that make learning unforgettable. • Receive individualized feedback, regardless of your child’s starting skill level, to ensure they improve in every session. IMPROVE • Sharpen public speaking and persuasion skills through instant feedback and hands-on practice. • Use the feedback instantly to ensure that the student captures it and applies it right away. • Benefit from personalized coaching that challenges and supports every student from their baseline. • Develop confidence, creativity, and clarity in expressing ideas, whether at school or in everyday life. Also, for classes with more than 10 students, two enthusiastic instructors will lead the sessions to guarantee every child gets the attention and feedback they deserve. Oh, and did we mention? Our instructors are professional educators AND performers who bring tons of energy and humor to every class. Your child will laugh, learn, and leave feeling excited for the next session! Please note: Occasional assignments will be given to maximize the class benefits.

For Grades 2–4 5-Session Series This super fun and high-energy 5-session class helps young speakers learn to think fast, speak boldly, and express themselves with confidence in ANY situation! Through exciting games, silly prompts, movement, and tons of speaking practice, students learn the exact tools they need to speak up without fear. At Highest Speak, we work on WHAT to say, HOW to structure it, and HOW to say anything at ANY time with confidence! ⭐ How Each 1-Hour Class Works 1. High-Energy Ice Breaker & Warm-Up We start with fun, fast, confidence-boosting games that get kids moving, laughing, and ready to speak. Instant comfort → instant participation. 2. Fun Lesson of the Day A quick, kid-friendly lesson teaches one impromptu skill—how to organize thoughts fast, how to start strong, or how to speak clearly without overthinking. Short, simple, and immediately useful. 3. Small-Group Practice + LOTS of Speaking Kids jump into pairs or small groups for fast-paced speaking rounds and silly challenges. Every child speaks multiple times each class and receives warm, supportive, personalized feedback. All sessions are led by our expert Highest Speak instructors, ensuring your child gets focused attention and guidance in a fun, supportive environment. For any more than 10 students, we always have two instructors to ensure plenty of individual attention and feedback. This lively, upbeat class helps kids find their brave voice, think on their feet, and shine—one fun, high-energy moment at a time!

For Grades 2–4 5-Session Series This super fun and high-energy 5-session class helps our tweens and teens learn to think fast, speak boldly, and express themselves with confidence in ANY situation! Through exciting games, silly prompts, movement, and tons of speaking practice, students learn the exact tools they need to speak up without fear. Whether in the classroom, on the playground, or communicating with adults, this skill WILL help them be the best version of themselves. At Highest Speak, we work on WHAT to say, HOW to structure it, and HOW to say anything at ANY time with confidence! ⭐ How Each 1-Hour Class Works 1. High-Energy Ice Breaker & Warm-Up We start with fun, fast, confidence-boosting games that get kids moving, laughing, and ready to speak. Instant comfort → instant participation. 2. Fun Lesson of the Day A quick, kid-friendly lesson teaches one key impromptu skill—how to organize thoughts fast, how to start strong, or how to speak clearly without overthinking. Short, simple, and immediately useful. 3. Small-Group Practice + LOTS of Speaking Kids jump into pairs or small groups for fast-paced speaking rounds and fun challenges. Every child speaks multiple times each class and receives warm, supportive, personalized feedback! All sessions are led by our expert Highest Speak instructors, ensuring your child gets focused attention and guidance in a fun, supportive environment. For any more than 10 students, we always have two instructors to ensure plenty of individual attention and feedback. This lively, upbeat class helps kids find their brave voice, think on their feet, and shine—one fun, high-energy moment at a time!

🎤 Sky Divers: Intro to Debate (Grades 5–8) Beginner Level • No Prior Debate Experience Required Curious about debate but not sure where to start? This beginner-level course is designed specifically for middle school students who want to learn the foundations of debate in a fun, supportive, and confidence-building environment. This class is not intended for experienced debaters. Over 6 high-energy weeks, students will explore what debate is, how to build clear and logical arguments, and how to deliver their ideas confidently—all through interactive games, small-group practice, and instructor-guided coaching. Students will learn how to: Structure simple but powerful arguments Support their points with strong reasons and examples Listen actively and respond thoughtfully Practice both written arguments and impromptu (on-the-spot) arguments This is the perfect introduction for students who may be interested in joining debate in middle school or high school, or for those who simply want to think more critically, speak more confidently, and strengthen their communication skills. Every class is designed to be engaging, approachable, and fun—while still building real skills that students can use in class discussions, presentations, interviews, and beyond.

🎤 Persuasive Speaking: Level 1 Duration: 5 Weeks | 1 Hour Per Class Get ready for a high-energy, fun-packed experience where your child will discover the power of persuasion in the most exciting way! Persuasive speaking is a life-changing skill that helps kids express their ideas with confidence, influence others, and make their voices heard. Through lively games, engaging lessons, and creative challenges, students learn how to persuade clearly and confidently—while having an absolute blast! ⭐ LEARN • Explore the elements of persuasive speech and writing through interactive lessons and real-world, kid-friendly class discussions. • Be introduced to simple debate techniques in a playful, low-pressure way that builds confidence. • Learn how to quickly structure both impromptu and prepared persuasive speeches using fun, fast-paced activities. • Discover how to captivate an audience with humor, creativity, and confident delivery. • Understand how to persuade different audiences using the right content and tone. • Learn strategies to manage public speaking anxiety and speak up with ease. • Build a strong foundation in structure, tone, and delivery—within a lively, supportive environment. ⭐ DO • Practice both impromptu and prepared pitches, presentations, and persuasive speeches in high-energy speaking rounds. • Create imaginative, funny, and creative pitches with teammates during collaborative challenges. • Participate in demonstrations, role-playing, and interactive games that make learning unforgettable. • Receive individualized, supportive feedback to help every child grow—no matter their starting point. ⭐ IMPROVE • Strengthen public speaking and persuasion skills through instant feedback and hands-on practice. • Apply feedback immediately during the same session to reinforce learning and growth. • Benefit from personalized coaching that meets each student exactly where they are. • Build confidence, creativity, clarity, and expressive skills that carry over into school and everyday life. ⭐ INSTRUCTOR EXPERIENCE For classes with more than 10 students, two enthusiastic instructors lead the sessions to ensure every child gets the attention and feedback they deserve. Our instructors are professional educators and performers who bring tons of energy, humor, and warmth to every class. Students leave each session laughing, learning, and eagerly looking forward to the next one! Please note: Occasional at-home assignments may be given to maximize the class benefits.

For classes with more than 10 students, two expert, high-energy instructors lead the session to ensure every student receives ample one-on-one feedback and speaking time. Our instructors are professional educators and performers who bring energy, humor, and warmth to every class. Students leave each session laughing, learning, and excited for the next challenge. Please note: Occasional at-home assignments may be given to reinforce skills and maximize progress.

2nd Sunday Speak-Up! Family Style! EVERY child and adult in our community deserves a more confident voice! Highest Speak is THRILLED to present “Second Sunday Speak-Up!” This is a FREE Public Speaking Workshop (every 2nd Sunday evening of the month!) Bring your whole family to a free, fun, and interactive public speaking workshop designed for Grades 2–8 and their parents! No matter your skill level, this is your chance to build confidence, communicate clearly, and have a blast. In this workshop, you and your family will: - Learn easy, practical strategies to speak confidently in school, at work, or in everyday life. - Play super fun speaking games that get everyone moving, laughing, and practicing their voices. - Experience interactive challenges that help kids and parents support each other while learning new skills. - Get a sneak peek into our programs and see how public speaking can become a part of your child’s (and your) growth journey. Public speaking skills are critical for school, social situations, work, and even mental health, and this workshop is all about making learning accessible, exciting, and family-friendly! Led by Highest Speak’s Founder, Sumedha Bahri (Patent Attorney, Federal Presentation Coach, Expert Public Speaker and Instructor, and Stand-Up Comic,) all families are bound to walk away with an extra confident boost in their step! 📅 Every 2nd Sunday of the month 🕕 6–7 PM 📍 Our Reston Office! 12310 Pinecrest Rd., Suite 301, Reston VA 22091 Amp up your confidence, cheer each other on, and join a supportive community where every voice matters! Come have fun, play games, and learn to speak up with confidence — together as a family! Please register one child, and answer the question of how many will attend from your family. (PLEASE do not bring children under grade 2. This is intended for parents and kids grades 2-8.) ** Also, please note that we present similar introductory content for each workshop. If you attend one, you will see very similar content for other workshops of the 2nd Sunday Series.