Academic Activities in Reston, VA

Talk Trekkers” Intro to Public Speaking Series (NO Prerequisites) This fun, high-energy, and highly interactive public speaking series is perfect for young speakers of all experience levels! Whether your child is a beginner or already has some public speaking experience, this 5-session, 5-class-hour course provides individualized feedback and tailored challenges to help them grow while having a blast! Students will receive class materials, including a detailed class packet, to support their learning and practice. In each lively, engaging class, students will: LEARN - Learn and improve on the fundamentals of effective public speaking and explore different styles of speaking; - Learn to reduce and manage public speaking anxiety and nervousness; - Learn to implement DAILY positive public speaking and communication habits; - Learn to structure and improve their writing skills; - Understand the differences in various types of public speaking, such as persuasive, informative, storytelling, and conversational skills. DO - Practice their impromptu speech skills as well as prepared written assignments; - Present to the entire group and receive feedback from instructors and peers. IMPROVE - Each student will receive individualized feedback on their speaking to help them grow as confident and effective communicators. - If assignments are written, students will also receive individualized feedback on their writing to enhance clarity, structure, and impact. Every class is packed with high-energy activities, exciting public speaking games, and opportunities to practice new skills in a supportive, dynamic environment. For classes with more than 10 students, two engaging instructors ensure each child receives plenty of attention and feedback. Our instructors are professional teachers and public speaking experts with backgrounds stand-up comedy and performance, making sure every moment is as fun as it is educational!

Level 2 Storytelling & Public Speaking (Grades 5–8) Class Length: 1 hour and 15 minutes Prerequisite: Students who completed any Highest Speak Summer 2026 Camp are eligible for this Level 2 course. Students who completed a Highest Speak course during the 2025–2026 school year may also qualify depending on the course completed and prior experience. Please contact us at info@highestspeak.com and we will be happy to confirm eligibility. ****Students beginning with Level 1 this Fall should continue with the Level 1 course sequence and are not yet eligible for Level 2. Great speakers know how to tell great stories! Whether giving a presentation, sharing an idea, delivering a speech, or speaking on the spot, strong storytelling skills help students connect with an audience and make their message memorable. This engaging Level 2 course is designed for students in grades 5–8 who are ready to build on their foundational skills and take their storytelling and public speaking to the next level. Students will develop more sophisticated stories, strengthen their writing and organization, and learn how to deliver their ideas with greater confidence, creativity, and impact. In this fun, interactive class, students will: Create engaging, well-structured stories with strong openings, clear progression, and memorable endings Develop richer stories using descriptive details, character development, dialogue, conflict, and other creative techniques Strengthen organization and learn how to shape ideas into compelling narratives Use vocal variety, pacing, pauses, gestures, facial expressions, and movement to bring stories to life Practice both prepared storytelling and impromptu speaking Participate in creative storytelling games and speaking challenges that build quick thinking and confidence Receive constructive feedback and learn how to use it to strengthen both content and delivery Build greater confidence presenting original stories and ideas in front of an audience Our instructors are experienced educators and performers who create an encouraging, high-energy environment where students can take creative risks, develop their individual speaking style, and continue growing as confident communicators. Please note: Assignments will be given throughout the course to support preparation and practice outside of class for the best results. Questions about Level 2 eligibility? Please email us at info@highestspeak.com. We’re happy to review your child’s previous Highest Speak experience and recommend the appropriate level.

High School Public Speaking & Interview Weekend Bootcamp A 2-Session High School Speaking Intensive Confidence. Clarity. Charisma. And a whole lot of YOU. Give your high school student the communication skills to speak up, think fast, and stand out—in the classroom, during interviews, in leadership roles, and beyond! This high-energy 2-session, Saturday bundle combines two of our most valuable high school programs: Public Speaking Fundamentals and Impromptu Speaking & College Interview Prep. Across two interactive 3-hour sessions, students will learn how to organize their ideas, create compelling content, deliver with confidence, think on their feet, and handle interviews and unexpected questions with poise. And this isn't six hours of sitting and listening! Students will learn through games, challenges, writing activities, speaking exercises, mock interviews, individualized coaching, and plenty of opportunities to get up and SPEAK. SESSION 1: PUBLIC SPEAKING FUNDAMENTALS (Saturday, Sept 26) Build It. Deliver It. Own It. Session 1 builds the foundation of a strong, confident speaker. Students will explore the three key elements of effective public speaking: Content, Structure, and Performance. They'll learn how to: Organize ideas into clear, compelling speeches and presentations Develop stronger and more engaging content Structure thoughts so they're easy for an audience to follow Use voice, body language, facial expression, and eye contact effectively Manage nervousness and speak with greater confidence Connect with an audience rather than simply "give a speech" Strengthen both written and verbal communication Students will participate in a combination of writing and speaking exercises, receiving individualized instructor coaching and supportive peer feedback along the way. Whether they're preparing for a class presentation, student leadership opportunity, competition, or simply want to become more comfortable speaking in front of others, they'll leave with practical tools they can use immediately. SESSION 2: IMPROMPTU SPEAKING & COLLEGE INTERVIEW PREP (Saturday, October 17) Think Fast. Speak Smart. Be Memorable! Now we're taking those foundational skills and putting them to the test! Session 2 focuses on one of the most important—and challenging—communication skills: speaking confidently when you haven't had time to prepare. Through fast-paced games, group challenges, interview practice, and lots of spontaneous speaking, students will learn how to: Think quickly and organize an answer on the spot Use simple structures to tackle almost any unexpected question Give spontaneous answers that still sound thoughtful and polished Speak with presence, purpose, and personality Handle academic Q&A and class discussions with confidence Prepare for college, scholarship, internship, and job interviews Talk about accomplishments without sounding rehearsed or boastful Communicate goals, interests, strengths, and experiences authentically Navigate challenging or unexpected interview questions Make their answers memorable through examples and storytelling Students will participate in real-time interview and impromptu speaking practice and receive personalized feedback on their content, structure, and delivery. MORE THAN PUBLIC SPEAKING Strong communication isn't just about standing behind a podium. Throughout both sessions, students will interact, collaborate, laugh, take risks, and build confidence alongside other high school students. The environment is intentionally supportive, social, and high-energy, giving students a chance to make connections while developing skills they'll use throughout high school, college, and their careers. Our goal isn't simply to help students become better public speakers. We want them to become more confident communicators—period. Proven College Interview Success Our college interview coaching students have earned admissions—and even full scholarships—at highly competitive universities including Vanderbilt, UNC, NYU, Purdue, UPenn, MIT, and more. Whether your student is preparing for college interviews now or simply wants to walk into the next classroom, meeting, interview, or opportunity with greater confidence, this 2-session intensive gives them tools they'll use for years to come. Two sessions. Six hours. A lifetime of stronger communication. Speak up. Think fast. Stand out.

Level 2: Public Speaking for Grades 5–8 (***Prerequisite: Completion of any Summer Camp 2026 Week or any of our full 5 week course within the 2025-2026 school year. Please email info@highestspeak.com to ask if not sure of which level your child should be at. ) Now that your student has built a strong foundation, it’s time to level up! Our Level 2 course helps students refine and expand their public speaking skills with more structure, deeper content, and a greater focus on delivery, persuasion, and audience engagement. In this 5-session, high-energy course, students will: - Strengthen speech organization and clarity with more complex prompts - Learn how to deliver longer speeches confidently and how to use notecards to prepare effectively instead of memorizing - Master confident delivery techniques including tone, pacing, gestures, and eye contact - Craft stronger openings, memorable closings, and smooth transitions - Explore more advanced speech types—persuasive, informative, motivational, and storytelling - Participate in challenging impromptu speaking activities - Receive in-depth instructor feedback and practical tips for growth - Present in every class, both prepared and off-the-cuff. While still playful and supportive, this course encourages students to dig deeper, speak with intention, and sharpen their presence as young communicators. Whether they’re preparing for school presentations, leadership roles, or competitions, Level 2 equips them with the tools to speak up—and stand out. All of our instructors are experienced public speaking educators and performers, so your child will be learning from experts who make public speaking fun, meaningful, and memorable. 💬 Please Note: Classes with more than 8 students will have two instructors to ensure every student receives individual feedback. Light assignments may be given between classes; outside practice is strongly encouraged.

This is a Level 1 class — ideal for beginners in Grades 5–8! No prior experience necessary. Students MUST be in Grades 5-8 (No exceptions.) ( Not sure which class your student took or what level is right? Just reach out at info@highestspeak.com—we’re happy to help! If they have never taken a class with Highest Speak, our Level 1 is the perfect start! ) Talk Trekkers: Intro to Public Speaking (Grades 5–8) This 5-session, interactive class is designed to help middle schoolers become confident, engaging speakers in a supportive, encouraging, and FUN environment. Whether your student wants to speak up more in class, prep for debate, lead presentations, or simply build everyday confidence, this course is the perfect starting point. In this 5-session, small-group course, students will: - Learn the key elements of strong public speaking and explore different types of speeches - Develop strategies to manage stage fright and speak with clarity - Participate in creative public speaking games and on-the-spot speech challenges - Present to the group during every class - Improve their impromptu speaking and speech structuring abilities - Receive individualized feedback from instructors and peers - Practice both prepared speeches and spontaneous speaking Students will explore multiple speaking formats—persuasive, informative, entertaining, and storytelling—to discover their voice and style. Our instructors are not only experienced educators and public speaking coaches—they’re also performers and comedians, so classes are always lively and fun! 💬 Please Note: If there are more than 10 students enrolled, we always have two instructors to ensure personalized attention and feedback. Light assignments may be given. Practicing outside of class helps students apply their new skills and build lasting confidence.

Welcome to Winter Storytelling at Highest Speak! No prerequisites – this is our introductory storytelling and writing class, perfect for beginners! Whether your child is brand new to storytelling or just wants to boost their confidence, this fun, high-energy class is the perfect place to start! Students will improve both their public speaking and creative writing skills as they learn how to craft and perform powerful stories in a supportive, laughter-filled environment. From developing story structure to delivering stories out loud, students will have a blast while building real-world communication skills. And what a perfect time of year to tell magical stories! Winter is full of wonder, imagination, and inspiration—making it the ideal season to bring creative ideas to life through words and performance. Students will work on both prepared stories and impromptu storytelling, building flexibility and confidence as they learn to think on their feet and express themselves clearly and creatively. Each class includes: Open Forum: positive group discussion to warm up and build connection Mini Lesson: focused instruction on a storytelling or performance concept Speaking Games: fast-paced, hilarious activities to boost confidence and creativity Story Assignment: writing or speaking activity that reinforces the day’s lesson Throughout the course, students will write, share, and present their original stories—building confidence in both written expression and spoken delivery. Individualized feedback helps each student grow at their own pace. ✨ All classes with more than 10 students are led by two instructors, ensuring personalized attention in smaller breakout groups. And yes—our instructors are not only experienced educators, but also stand-up comedians and performers—so your child can expect to laugh, engage, and leave class buzzing with excitement each week. 💬 Please Note: Light homework may be assigned each week. Students get the most out of the class when they practice their skills outside of our sessions.

Welcome to Winter at Highest Speak! No prerequisites necessary — this is a Level 1 introductory storytelling and writing class, perfect for beginner teens and tweens! In this fully interactive, high-energy class, students will have a ton of fun learning the essential elements of effective storytelling, story writing, and story structure. Through hilarious storytelling games and multiple hands-on storytelling assignments, your child will sharpen both their creative writing and public speaking skills. Winter is the perfect time for storytelling! With the season’s cozy vibes and magical atmosphere, students will be inspired to create and share imaginative, captivating stories that bring their ideas to life. Each class includes: - Open Forum: a positive, welcoming discussion to warm up - Mini Lesson: focused on a specific storytelling or performance topic - Speaking Games: fun, fast-paced activities to build creativity and confidence - Assignment: a daily storytelling or writing task to practice new skills For classes with more than 10 students, we provide two instructors to ensure every child receives plenty of individual attention and feedback in smaller breakout groups. Our instructors are not only professional skilled educators, but also stand-up comedians and performers, guaranteeing a fun, engaging, and memorable learning experience for every student! Please note: Assignments are expected to be completed outside of class to help students get the most out of their learning.

High School Public Speaking Weekend Bootcamp Join us for a fun, high-energy bootcamp designed to help high school students become confident, clear, and engaging speakers! Whether you're prepping for class presentations, student leadership, or college interviews, this bootcamp will give you the tools to speak up and stand out. Over this 3-hour session, students will learn the fundamentals of public speaking, including how to structure their thoughts, write compelling content, and deliver with confidence. We’ll explore 3 key fundamentals of public speaking: content, structure, and performance, while keeping the atmosphere encouraging and collaborative. With a balance of writing and speaking exercises, students will improve their communication on the page, on the stage, and in daily conversations. The workshop includes plenty of individualized instructor coaching and peer feedback, so each student walks away with tangible growth and renewed confidence. This bootcamp is not only about skills—it’s about connection. Students will build friendships, practice social confidence, and have a blast while they learn critical skills for high school and beyond!

Impromptu Speaking & College Interview Boot Camp For High School Students Looking to nail that college interview, build unshakable confidence, and speak like a pro—all while having a blast? This high-energy boot camp is designed for high school students who want to think on their feet, speak with clarity, and shine in any situation—whether it’s an interview, a class discussion, or just day-to-day conversations. Through interactive games, group challenges, and fun, fast-paced activities, students will learn how to craft strong, spontaneous responses and speak with presence, purpose, and personality. Saturday: Speak Up, Think Fast We’ll kick things off with: Fun games and warm-ups to break the ice and get comfortable Strategies to overcome speech anxiety and find your voice Quick-thinking structures for answering any kind of question—academic, social, or professional Tips to make any impromptu speech engaging and impactful Lots of chances to practice in a supportive, lively environment College interviews, job interviews, and academic Q&A prep How to talk about your accomplishments and goals authentically and confidently Real-time practice with feedback to help you sharpen your answers Focus on content, structure, and delivery—with your unique personality front and center This boot camp is perfect for students who want to build real-world speaking skills while gaining an enjoyment of public speaking. Whether you're prepping for an interview or just want to walk into any room with more confidence, you’ll leave feeling empowered and ready for anything. Our college interview coaching students, just this past academic year, have gotten admissions and even full scholarships at schools like Vanderbilt, UNC, NYU, Perdue, UPenn, MIT and more! Confidence. Clarity. Charisma. And a whole lot of YOU. Let’s unlock it all—one impromptu moment at a time!

Talk Trekkers” Intro to Public Speaking Series (NO Prerequisites) This fun, high-energy, and highly interactive public speaking series is perfect for young speakers of all experience levels! Whether your child is a beginner or already has some public speaking experience, this 5-session, 5-class-hour course provides individualized feedback and tailored challenges to help them grow while having a blast! Students will receive class materials, including a detailed class packet, to support their learning and practice. In each lively, engaging class, students will: LEARN - Learn and improve on the fundamentals of effective public speaking and explore different styles of speaking; - Learn to reduce and manage public speaking anxiety and nervousness; - Learn to implement DAILY positive public speaking and communication habits; - Learn to structure and improve their writing skills; - Understand the differences in various types of public speaking, such as persuasive, informative, storytelling, and conversational skills. DO - Practice their impromptu speech skills as well as prepared written assignments; - Present to the entire group and receive feedback from instructors and peers. IMPROVE - Each student will receive individualized feedback on their speaking to help them grow as confident and effective communicators. - If assignments are written, students will also receive individualized feedback on their writing to enhance clarity, structure, and impact. Every class is packed with high-energy activities, exciting public speaking games, and opportunities to practice new skills in a supportive, dynamic environment. For classes with more than 10 students, two engaging instructors ensure each child receives plenty of attention and feedback. Our instructors are professional teachers and public speaking experts with backgrounds stand-up comedy and performance, making sure every moment is as fun as it is educational!

FREE “FALL INTO SPEAKING” WORKSHOP & OPEN HOUSE! 🍂 For Kids AND Parents | Grades 2–8 Come experience what makes Highest Speak different! Our FREE Fall Into Speaking Workshop & Open House is a chance for kids AND parents to jump in, learn, laugh, and experience firsthand what we do at Highest Speak! Play hilarious public speaking games, take on fun and interactive speaking challenges, and learn simple, practical strategies for becoming a more confident and effective communicator. And this isn’t just for the kids! Both kids AND parents will participate and walk away with real skills, strategies, and tips they can start using right away. 🍁 Play hilarious public speaking games 🍁 Build confidence and quick-thinking skills 🍁 Learn practical speaking strategies together 🍁 Walk away with tools you can continue using at home 🍁 Meet our team and experience the Highest Speak approach 🍁 Learn more about our year-round classes, workshops, camps, and advanced programs for Grades 2–8 Whether your child already loves the spotlight or is still finding their voice, come FALL INTO SPEAKING with us and see just how much fun building communication skills can be! FREE • Grades 2–8 • Kids & Parents Participate Important Registration Information: Maximum of 4 attendees per family. Please indicate the total number of attendees prior to checkout. To keep the workshop age-appropriate and enjoyable for all participants, please do not bring children under age 6.

🎤 Talk Trekkers: Level 2 – Confident Communicators Grades 2–4 | 5 Weeks | 1 Hour Per Week (Prerequisite: ANY Previous Highest Speak Summer Camp week 2026 OR any of our previous full 5 week courses within the last year) If your child has completed any of our previous courses or camps in the last year, your child is eligible to advance to Level 2 Fundamentals. Level 2 builds on the foundations of content, structure, and performance, helping students grow into more expressive, confident, and purposeful speakers. In this high-energy and supportive course, students dig deeper into their delivery skills while learning how to write, organize, and speak with clarity using notecards — not memorization. We focus on helping young speakers think on their feet while staying organized and strong in their message. 🌟 In Level 2, Students Will: 💡 LEARN - Refine their understanding of speech structure and clarity across storytelling, persuasive, and informative formats - Strengthen vocal control — volume, tone variation, pacing, and expression - Sharpen nonverbal delivery — posture, movement, body language, and eye contact - Learn to write with delivery in mind, crafting speeches that are designed to be spoken out loud - Develop confidence using notecards as speaking tools, not scripts 🎤 DO - Present longer, more thoughtful speeches in a variety of formats - Participate in fun, focused delivery games and challenges - Learn to use outlines and/or notecards to stay organized and natural while presenting speeches. - Give and receive peer feedback in a safe, supportive environment 📈 IMPROVE - Receive individualized coaching on both speaking and structure - Practice applying instructor feedback in real-time - Gain tools for rehearsing and speaking with confidence 📣 Placement Requirements This is a Level 2 class, designed specifically for students who have completed: ✔️ Our 5–week Intro to Public Speaking Class, or ✔️ Highest Speak’s Fundamentals of Public Speaking Camp **Even if your child has taken public speaking elsewhere, they will be still be required to start at Level 1 — our approach, curriculum, and techniques are unique and carefully scaffolded. Not sure which class your child took? Reach out and we’ll be happy to confirm! ** Please note, no class on Oct. 11 due to Columbus Day Weekend!

This is a Level 1 class — ideal for beginners in Grades 5–8! No prior experience necessary. Students MUST be in Grades 5-8 (No exceptions.) ( Not sure which class your student took or what level is right? Just reach out at info@highestspeak.com—we’re happy to help! If they have never taken a class with Highest Speak, our Level 1 is the perfect start! ) Talk Trekkers: Intro to Public Speaking (Grades 5–8) This 5-session, interactive class is designed to help middle schoolers become confident, engaging speakers in a supportive, encouraging, and FUN environment. Whether your student wants to speak up more in class, prep for debate, lead presentations, or simply build everyday confidence, this course is the perfect starting point. In this 5-session, small-group course, students will: - Learn the key elements of strong public speaking and explore different types of speeches - Develop strategies to manage stage fright and speak with clarity - Participate in creative public speaking games and on-the-spot speech challenges - Present to the group during every class - Improve their impromptu speaking and speech structuring abilities - Receive individualized feedback from instructors and peers - Practice both prepared speeches and spontaneous speaking Students will explore multiple speaking formats—persuasive, informative, entertaining, and storytelling—to discover their voice and style. Our instructors are not only experienced educators and public speaking coaches—they’re also performers and comedians, so classes are always lively and fun! 💬 Please Note: If there are more than 10 students enrolled, we always have two instructors to ensure personalized attention and feedback. Light assignments may be given. Practicing outside of class helps students apply their new skills and build lasting confidence.

Welcome to Winter Storytelling at Highest Speak! No prerequisites – this is our introductory storytelling and writing class, perfect for beginners! Whether your child is brand new to storytelling or just wants to boost their confidence, this fun, high-energy class is the perfect place to start! Students will improve both their public speaking and creative writing skills as they learn how to craft and perform powerful stories in a supportive, laughter-filled environment. From developing story structure to delivering stories out loud, students will have a blast while building real-world communication skills. And what a perfect time of year to tell magical stories! Winter is full of wonder, imagination, and inspiration—making it the ideal season to bring creative ideas to life through words and performance. Students will work on both prepared stories and impromptu storytelling, building flexibility and confidence as they learn to think on their feet and express themselves clearly and creatively. Each class includes: Open Forum: positive group discussion to warm up and build connection Mini Lesson: focused instruction on a storytelling or performance concept Speaking Games: fast-paced, hilarious activities to boost confidence and creativity Story Assignment: writing or speaking activity that reinforces the day’s lesson Throughout the course, students will write, share, and present their original stories—building confidence in both written expression and spoken delivery. Individualized feedback helps each student grow at their own pace. ✨ All classes with more than 10 students are led by two instructors, ensuring personalized attention in smaller breakout groups. And yes—our instructors are not only experienced educators, but also stand-up comedians and performers—so your child can expect to laugh, engage, and leave class buzzing with excitement each week. 💬 Please Note: Light homework may be assigned each week. Students get the most out of the class when they practice their skills outside of our sessions.

It’s never too early to have our littles learn to speak up and start building confidence! Highest Squeakers | Grades K–1 It’s never too early to learn to speak up and build confidence! In this incredibly fun 45-minute per week series, our youngest speakers — our Highest Squeakers! — will get their first introduction to public speaking and communication in a way designed especially for little learners! Through movement, games, imagination, and lots of opportunities to speak, our Squeakers will: Play fun and silly speech games Learn a few simple, kid-friendly speaking tools Practice speaking loud and proud Work on eye contact, expression, and confident body language Get comfortable sharing ideas in front of a group Even give their own short and super-fun mini speeches! There’s no pressure and no complicated concepts — just lots of encouragement, participation, and fun. Give your little one the tools early to speak up, share their ideas, and start showing the world their most confident self!

🎤 Talk Trekkers: Level 2 – Confident Communicators Grades 2–4 | 5 Weeks | 1 Hour Per Week (Prerequisite: Any Summer 2026 Public Speaking Camp or previous 5-week course within the last school year (2025-2026). with us (ask if not sure) If your child has completed any of Highest Speak’s Camps this Summer or any of our 5 week class in the 2025-2026 school year, they’re ready for the next step! Level 2 builds on the foundations of content, structure, and performance, helping students grow into more expressive, confident, and purposeful speakers. In this high-energy and supportive course, students dig deeper into their delivery skills while learning how to write, organize, and speak with clarity using notecards — not memorization. We focus on helping young speakers think on their feet while staying organized and strong in their message. 🌟 In Level 2, Students Will: 💡 LEARN - Refine their understanding of speech structure and clarity across storytelling, persuasive, and informative formats - Strengthen vocal control — volume, tone variation, pacing, and expression - Sharpen nonverbal delivery — posture, movement, body language, and eye contact - Learn to write with delivery in mind, crafting speeches that are designed to be spoken out loud - Develop confidence using notecards as speaking tools, not scripts 🎤 DO - Present longer, more thoughtful speeches in a variety of formats - Participate in fun, focused delivery games and challenges - Learn to use outlines and/or notecards to stay organized and natural while presenting speeches. - Give and receive peer feedback in a safe, supportive environment 📈 IMPROVE - Receive individualized coaching on both speaking and structure - Practice applying instructor feedback in real-time - Gain tools for rehearsing and speaking with confidence 📣 Placement Requirements This is a Level 2 class, designed specifically for students who have completed: ✔️ Our 5–week Intro to Public Speaking Class, or ✔️ Highest Speak’s Fundamentals of Public Speaking Camp **Even if your child has taken public speaking elsewhere, they will be still be required to start at Level 1 — our approach, curriculum, and techniques are unique and carefully scaffolded. Not sure which class your child took? Reach out and we’ll be happy to confirm! ** Please note, no class on Oct. 11 due to Columbus Day Weekend!

🎤 Talk Trekkers: Level 2 – Confident Communicators Grades 2–4 | 5 Weeks | 1 Hour Per Week (Prerequisite: ANY of our Summer 2026 Camps or a 5 week course with us in the last academic year. If your child has completed Highest Speak’s Intro to Public Speaking class or camp, they’re ready for the next step! Level 2 builds on the foundations of content, structure, and performance, helping students grow into more expressive, confident, and purposeful speakers. In this high-energy and supportive course, students dig deeper into their delivery skills while learning how to write, organize, and speak with clarity using notecards — not memorization. We focus on helping young speakers think on their feet while staying organized and strong in their message. 🌟 In Level 2, Students Will: 💡 LEARN - Refine their understanding of speech structure and clarity across storytelling, persuasive, and informative formats - Strengthen vocal control — volume, tone variation, pacing, and expression - Sharpen nonverbal delivery — posture, movement, body language, and eye contact - Learn to write with delivery in mind, crafting speeches that are designed to be spoken out loud - Develop confidence using notecards as speaking tools, not scripts 🎤 DO - Present longer, more thoughtful speeches in a variety of formats - Participate in fun, focused delivery games and challenges - Learn to use outlines and/or notecards to stay organized and natural while presenting speeches. - Give and receive peer feedback in a safe, supportive environment 📈 IMPROVE - Receive individualized coaching on both speaking and structure - Practice applying instructor feedback in real-time - Gain tools for rehearsing and speaking with confidence 📣 Placement Requirements This is a Level 2 class, designed specifically for students who have completed: ✔️ Any 5–week Intro to Public Speaking Class with US, or ✔️ ANY of Highest Speak’s Ultimate Speak 2026 Programs. **Even if your child has taken public speaking elsewhere, they will be still be required to start at Level 1 — our approach, curriculum, and techniques are unique and carefully scaffolded. Not sure which class your child took? Reach out and we’ll be happy to confirm! ** Please note, no class on Oct. 11 due to Columbus Day Weekend!

Welcome to Winter at Highest Speak! No prerequisites necessary — this is a Level 1 introductory storytelling and writing class, perfect for beginner teens and tweens! In this fully interactive, high-energy class, students will have a ton of fun learning the essential elements of effective storytelling, story writing, and story structure. Through hilarious storytelling games and multiple hands-on storytelling assignments, your child will sharpen both their creative writing and public speaking skills. Winter is the perfect time for storytelling! With the season’s cozy vibes and magical atmosphere, students will be inspired to create and share imaginative, captivating stories that bring their ideas to life. Each class includes: - Open Forum: a positive, welcoming discussion to warm up - Mini Lesson: focused on a specific storytelling or performance topic - Speaking Games: fun, fast-paced activities to build creativity and confidence - Assignment: a daily storytelling or writing task to practice new skills For classes with more than 10 students, we provide two instructors to ensure every child receives plenty of individual attention and feedback in smaller breakout groups. Our instructors are not only professional skilled educators, but also stand-up comedians and performers, guaranteeing a fun, engaging, and memorable learning experience for every student! Please note: Assignments are expected to be completed outside of class to help students get the most out of their learning. Bonus Opportunity: Students enrolled in this class are eligible to participate in our Friday Evening Winter “Magic Mic” Night on December 12 for a small additional fee! Please register separately if you would like your child to join this fun, special storytelling event.

Talk Trekkers” Intro to Public Speaking Series (NO Prerequisites) This fun, high-energy, and highly interactive public speaking series is perfect for young speakers of all experience levels! Whether your child is a beginner or already has some public speaking experience, this 5-session, 5-class-hour course provides individualized feedback and tailored challenges to help them grow while having a blast! Students will receive class materials, including a detailed class packet, to support their learning and practice. In each lively, engaging class, students will: LEARN - Learn and improve on the fundamentals of effective public speaking and explore different styles of speaking; - Learn to reduce and manage public speaking anxiety and nervousness; - Learn to implement DAILY positive public speaking and communication habits; - Learn to structure and improve their writing skills; - Understand the differences in various types of public speaking, such as persuasive, informative, storytelling, and conversational skills. DO - Practice their impromptu speech skills as well as prepared written assignments; - Present to the entire group and receive feedback from instructors and peers. IMPROVE - Each student will receive individualized feedback on their speaking to help them grow as confident and effective communicators. - If assignments are written, students will also receive individualized feedback on their writing to enhance clarity, structure, and impact. Every class is packed with high-energy activities, exciting public speaking games, and opportunities to practice new skills in a supportive, dynamic environment. For classes with more than 10 students, two engaging instructors ensure each child receives plenty of attention and feedback. Our instructors are professional teachers and public speaking experts with backgrounds stand-up comedy and performance, making sure every moment is as fun as it is educational!

Level 2 Storytelling & Public Speaking (Grades 5–8) Class Length: 1 hour and 15 minutes Prerequisite: Students who completed any Highest Speak Summer 2026 Camp are eligible for this Level 2 course. Students who completed a Highest Speak course during the 2025–2026 school year may also qualify depending on the course completed and prior experience. Please contact us at info@highestspeak.com and we will be happy to confirm eligibility. ****Students beginning with Level 1 this Fall should continue with the Level 1 course sequence and are not yet eligible for Level 2. Great speakers know how to tell great stories! Whether giving a presentation, sharing an idea, delivering a speech, or speaking on the spot, strong storytelling skills help students connect with an audience and make their message memorable. This engaging Level 2 course is designed for students in grades 5–8 who are ready to build on their foundational skills and take their storytelling and public speaking to the next level. Students will develop more sophisticated stories, strengthen their writing and organization, and learn how to deliver their ideas with greater confidence, creativity, and impact. In this fun, interactive class, students will: Create engaging, well-structured stories with strong openings, clear progression, and memorable endings Develop richer stories using descriptive details, character development, dialogue, conflict, and other creative techniques Strengthen organization and learn how to shape ideas into compelling narratives Use vocal variety, pacing, pauses, gestures, facial expressions, and movement to bring stories to life Practice both prepared storytelling and impromptu speaking Participate in creative storytelling games and speaking challenges that build quick thinking and confidence Receive constructive feedback and learn how to use it to strengthen both content and delivery Build greater confidence presenting original stories and ideas in front of an audience Our instructors are experienced educators and performers who create an encouraging, high-energy environment where students can take creative risks, develop their individual speaking style, and continue growing as confident communicators. Please note: Assignments will be given throughout the course to support preparation and practice outside of class for the best results. Questions about Level 2 eligibility? Please email us at info@highestspeak.com. We’re happy to review your child’s previous Highest Speak experience and recommend the appropriate level.

Level 2 Storytelling & Public Speaking (Grades 5–8) Class Length: 1 hour and 15 minutes Prerequisite: Students who completed any Highest Speak Summer 2026 Camp are eligible for this Level 2 course. Students who completed a Highest Speak course during the 2025–2026 school year may also qualify depending on the course completed and prior experience. Please contact us at info@highestspeak.com and we will be happy to confirm eligibility. ****Students beginning with Level 1 this Fall should continue with the Level 1 course sequence and are not yet eligible for Level 2. Great speakers know how to tell great stories! Whether giving a presentation, sharing an idea, delivering a speech, or speaking on the spot, strong storytelling skills help students connect with an audience and make their message memorable. This engaging Level 2 course is designed for students in grades 5–8 who are ready to build on their foundational skills and take their storytelling and public speaking to the next level. Students will develop more sophisticated stories, strengthen their writing and organization, and learn how to deliver their ideas with greater confidence, creativity, and impact. In this fun, interactive class, students will: Create engaging, well-structured stories with strong openings, clear progression, and memorable endings Develop richer stories using descriptive details, character development, dialogue, conflict, and other creative techniques Strengthen organization and learn how to shape ideas into compelling narratives Use vocal variety, pacing, pauses, gestures, facial expressions, and movement to bring stories to life Practice both prepared storytelling and impromptu speaking Participate in creative storytelling games and speaking challenges that build quick thinking and confidence Receive constructive feedback and learn how to use it to strengthen both content and delivery Build greater confidence presenting original stories and ideas in front of an audience Our instructors are experienced educators and performers who create an encouraging, high-energy environment where students can take creative risks, develop their individual speaking style, and continue growing as confident communicators. Please note: Assignments will be given throughout the course to support preparation and practice outside of class for the best results. Questions about Level 2 eligibility? Please email us at info@highestspeak.com. We’re happy to review your child’s previous Highest Speak experience and recommend the appropriate level.