Academic Activities in Reston, VA

🎤 Weekend Workshop Bundle for High Schoolers (Grades 9–12) Three Unique 3.5-Hour Workshops | Each Runs 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM Build Confidence • Strengthen Speaking Skills • Have a Blast We know how busy high schoolers get—which is why each of these high-impact weekend workshops is offered on a single Saturday or Sunday. With a focus on performance, storytelling, and persuasive speaking, this 3-part series helps students grow into stronger, more confident communicators—all while having a great time. 📅 Workshop Lineup: 🎤 1. Speak to Perform Saturday, September 27 | 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM Step into the spotlight and unlock your voice! This workshop focuses on the essential tools of powerful speech delivery—volume, tone, body language, eye contact, and presence—to help students come across more confident and engaging in any setting. Includes both prepared and impromptu practice, movement-based activities, and personalized coaching. ✨ 2. Tell It Well: Storytelling & Story Writing Sunday, October 26 | 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM In this creative, high-energy session, students will learn how to write and perform compelling stories, explore story structure, and apply storytelling in interviews, essays, and conversations. Through games, reflection, and peer feedback, students will build confidence and connection through the power of story—just in time for the cozy fall season. 🎄 3. Holiday Pitch: Persuasive Speaking Workshop Saturday, December 14 | 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM In this festive, holiday-themed session, students will learn to structure and deliver persuasive speeches, practice both prepared and impromptu formats, and tailor their message to different audiences. Packed with holiday-themed games, challenges, and feedback loops, this session will boost persuasive power in a joyful, spirited environment. 🎁 Bundle All Three and Save! Each workshop stands on its own—but together, they build a well-rounded speaker who can perform, tell stories, and persuade with confidence. Fun, fast-paced, and incredibly useful—just how weekend learning should be!

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.

🗣️ 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!

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. 🎤 Bonus Opportunity: Magic Mic Night! All Fall Highest Speak students are invited (for a small fee) to perform at our Halloween-themed Magic Mic Night on Friday, October 24 (7:30-9PM)! Students can share a favorite class piece or a new one (2 minutes max). 🎭 Mandatory rehearsal on Wednesday October 21 (6:00–8:00 PM) or Sunday October 19 (3-5pm) Each performer may bring 2 guests. Spots are limited — sign up ASAP to secure yours!

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.

Level 2 Storytelling & Public Speaking (Grades 2–4) Prerequisite: Students must have completed either Highest Speak’s Previous Tall Tales Storytelling course or our Summer 2025 Creative Writing Class. Please note, Level 1 of our Fall “Talk Trekkers” Class does NOT qualify as a prerequisite for this Level 2 Storytelling course. Winter is the perfect time for magical story writing! With the season’s cozy and inspiring atmosphere, students will be encouraged to create captivating stories filled with imagination and heart. This exciting Level 2 course builds on foundational skills, helping young storytellers and speakers develop greater confidence, creativity, and control. Designed specifically for grades 2 to 4, this class encourages students to explore new storytelling techniques, deepen their understanding of narrative structure, and improve their delivery skills. In this fun, interactive class, students will: - Create longer, more detailed stories and learn how to organize ideas clearly - Practice using expressive voice, gestures, and pacing to engage an audience - Develop skills for both prepared storytelling and impromptu storytelling - Participate in lively storytelling games and activities that sharpen quick thinking - Receive constructive feedback to help improve their storytelling and presentation - Build confidence presenting to peers in a supportive, positive environment Our instructors are experienced educators and performers who know how to keep young learners motivated and excited about public speaking and storytelling. Please note: No Classes on November 11 and Nov 25th for Student Holidays. Assignments will be given to support learning and practice outside of class for best results. Not sure if your child has taken our qualifying courses previously? Please email us at info@highestspeak.com — we’re happy to help recommend the best level for your child! 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.

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.

This is a Level 1 class — perfect for beginners! No prior experience is necessary. ( Not sure what class your child took before or which level is the best fit? Just reach out at info@highestspeak.com—we’re happy to help! If they have never taken a complete Highest Speak course, this is the perfect starting point!) Talk Trekkers: Intro to Public Speaking This high-energy, small-group class is the perfect launchpad for new public speakers! Designed especially for our beginner Highest Speakers, this 5-session series is incredibly fun, highly interactive, and packed with hands-on learning. Throughout the course, students will: - Explore the fundamentals of effective public speaking and different speech styles - Learn tools to manage public speaking nerves with confidence - Play dynamic speech games and complete fun in-class speaking challenges - Present to the group in every class - Sharpen their quick-thinking and impromptu speaking skills - Receive personalized feedback from the instructor and their peers - Practice both prepared and on-the-spot (impromptu) speeches Students will experiment with a variety of speaking styles, including persuasive, informative, entertaining, and storytelling formats. All of our instructors are professional educators and public speaking coaches—and they’re also experienced performers and comedians—so students can expect to have a blast while they learn! 💬 Please note: No class on Sept. 23 due to Student Holiday. Also, light homework may be assigned, and students get the most out of the class when they take time to practice skills outside of our sessions.

🎉 Free Fall Frenzy! 🎤 Fundamentals of Public Speaking for Parents and Tweens/Teens (Grades 5-8) 🗓️ Sunday, August 24 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM 📍 Hosted by Highest Speak We don’t just tell you how our classes work — we have kids AND parents experience it! Join us for a fun, fast-paced, and completely free one-hour workshop where kids (Grades 5-8) and their parents will learn the fundamentals of public speaking through games, movement, and hands-on practice — together! In this session, you'll: 🎤 Learn key performance skills like body language, eye contact, and vocal energy 🎲 Play super fun speaking games that get both kids and parents involved 💡 Get a real feel for the Highest Speak approach — not just by hearing about it, but by doing it! 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Perfect for families new to public speaking and Highest Speak 📣 Already taken our classes? You may know this material — but come for the fun and games! 🚨 Space is limited! Register today to join the frenzy and experience it for yourself! Please limit to 1 parent with attending child!

This 8-session, interactive class is designed to help tween and teen hom 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, socialize effectively, or simply build everyday confidence, this course is the perfect starting point. In this 8-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: Light assignments may be given. Practicing outside of class helps students apply their new skills and build lasting confidence.

This 8-session, interactive class is designed to help tween and teen homeschoolers (Grades 5-8) 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, socialize more effectively, or simply build everyday confidence, this course is the perfect starting point! In this 8-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 - Practice our group socialization skills through fun discussions and games! 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: Light assignments may be given. Practicing outside of class helps students apply their new skills and build lasting confidence. Also, NO CLASS on September 23 due to Student Holiday.

Level 2: Public Speaking for Grades 5–8 (MUST BE IN GRADES 5-8! NO EXCEPTIONS) (***Prerequisite: Completion of our full Level 1 course (Grades 5–8) or Summer Fundamentals Bootcamp. If your child completed Level 1 as part of Grades 2–4 and are now in Grades 5-8, they will need to schedule a brief readiness assessment with one of our instructors to determine if they are ready to move up to level 2, or if they would benefit more from our Level 1 class for Grades 5–8. Please email info@highestspeak.com to schedule an online assessment. ) 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 10 students will have two instructors to ensure every student receives individual feedback. Light assignments may be given between classes; outside practice is strongly encouraged.

Level 2: Public Speaking for Grades 5–8 (MUST BE IN GRADES 5-8! NO EXCEPTIONS) (***Prerequisite: Completion of our full Level 1 course (Grades 5–8) or Summer Fundamentals Bootcamp. If your child completed Level 1 as part of Grades 2–4 and are now in Grades 5-8, they will need to schedule a brief readiness assessment with one of our instructors to determine if they are ready to move up to level 2, or if they would benefit more from our Level 1 class for Grades 5–8. Please email info@highestspeak.com to schedule an online assessment. ) 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. 🎤 Bonus Opportunity: Magic Mic Night! All Fall Highest Speak students are invited to perform at our Halloween-themed Magic Mic Night on Friday, October 24 (7:30-9pm PM)! Students can share a favorite class piece or a new one (2 minutes max). 🎭 Mandatory rehearsal on Wednesday October 21 (6:00–8:00 PM) or Sunday, October 19 from 3-5pm. Each performer may bring 2 guests. Spots are limited — register on our website ASAP to secure yours!

🎤 Talk Trekkers: Level 2 – Confident Communicators Grades 2–4 | 5 Weeks | 1 Hour Per Week (Prerequisite: Talk Trekkers Intro Class or Camp — see below) MUST BE IN GRADES 2-4! If your child has completed our 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 notecards to stay organized and natural while speaking - 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 with notecards and speaking with confidence 📝 End-of-Course Written Assessment Each student will receive a personalized written evaluation from their instructors at the end of the course, including: - A summary of their strengths and progress: - Areas they should continue to build - Specific recommendations to grow as a speaker beyond class 📣 Placement Requirements This is a Level 2 class, designed specifically for students who have completed: ✔️ Our 5–6 week Intro to Public Speaking Class, or ✔️ A Talk Trekkers 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! 🎓 Showcase Night At the end of the course, students will have an opportunity to sign up for our themed Mic Mania Showcase Night — a celebratory, low-pressure event where they get to shine for family and friends!

🎉 Free Fall Frenzy! 🎤 Fundamentals of Public Speaking for Parents and Kids (Grades 2–4) 🗓️ Sunday, August 24 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM 📍 Hosted by Highest Speak We don’t just tell you how our classes work — we have kids AND parents experience it! Join us for a fun, fast-paced, and completely free one-hour workshop where kids (Grades 2–4) and their parents will learn the fundamentals of public speaking through games, movement, and hands-on practice — together! In this session, you'll: 🎤 Learn key performance skills like body language, eye contact, and vocal energy 🎲 Play super fun speaking games that get both kids and parents involved 💡 Get a real feel for the Highest Speak approach — not just by hearing about it, but by doing it! 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Perfect for families new to public speaking and Highest Speak 📣 Already taken our classes? You may know this material — but come for the fun and games! 🚨 Space is limited! Register today to join the frenzy and experience it for yourself! Please limit to 1 parent with attending child!

🎄 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!

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. ** Students are also eligible (for a small fee) to sign up for our Winter “Friday Magic Mic” night (December 12) where they can perform their favorite holiday/winter themed stories!

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. ** Students are also eligible (for a small fee) to sign up for our Winter “Friday Magic Mic” night where they can perform their favorite holiday/winter themed stories!

Level 2 Storytelling & Public Speaking (Grades 5–8) Prerequisite: Students must have completed Highest Speak’s Previous Tall Tales Storytelling class or our Summer 2025 Creative Writing Class. If your child took the Tall Tales class in Grades 2–4, an assessment with our instructors is required to determine readiness to level up, as the Grades 2–4 class is less advanced. Based on the assessment, we will recommend whether your child should enhance their skills with Level 1 or move on to Level 2. Please email info@highestspeak.com to schedule an assessment or if you’re unsure about the appropriate level. Winter is the perfect time for crafting captivating stories! In this dynamic Level 2 class, tweens and teens will deepen their storytelling skills and elevate their public speaking abilities. Designed for grades 5 through 8, this course builds on foundational techniques, encouraging students to develop more complex narratives, enhance their stage presence, and engage audiences with confidence. What students will do: - Write longer, richly detailed stories with clear structure and strong themes - Master advanced storytelling elements like voice modulation, pacing, and body language - Develop skills for both prepared presentations and impromptu storytelling - Participate in interactive games and exercises to sharpen quick thinking and creativity - Receive personalized feedback to refine delivery and storytelling techniques - Practice storytelling styles including persuasive, informative, and entertaining speeches Our instructors, who are both skilled educators and professional performers, create a supportive yet challenging environment where students thrive and have a blast! Please note: Assignments may be given to encourage practice and growth outside of class. 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! Registration for this event is separate.

Level 2 Storytelling & Public Speaking (Grades 2–4) Prerequisite: Students must have completed either Highest Speak’s Previous Tall Tales Storytelling course or our Summer 2025 Creative Writing Class. Please note, Level 1 of our Fall Class does NOT qualify as a prerequisite for this Level 2 Storytelling course. Winter is the perfect time for magical story writing! With the season’s cozy and inspiring atmosphere, students will be encouraged to create captivating stories filled with imagination and heart. This exciting Level 2 course builds on foundational skills, helping young storytellers and speakers develop greater confidence, creativity, and control. Designed specifically for grades 2 to 4, this class encourages students to explore new storytelling techniques, deepen their understanding of narrative structure, and improve their delivery skills. In this fun, interactive class, students will: - Create longer, more detailed stories and learn how to organize ideas clearly - Practice using expressive voice, gestures, and pacing to engage an audience - Develop skills for both prepared storytelling and impromptu speaking - Participate in lively storytelling games and activities that sharpen quick thinking - Receive constructive feedback to help improve their storytelling and presentation - Build confidence presenting to peers in a supportive, positive environment Our instructors are experienced educators and performers who know how to keep young learners motivated and excited about public speaking and storytelling. Please note: Assignments will be given to support learning and practice outside of class for best results. Not sure if your child has taken our qualifying courses previously? Please email us at info@highestspeak.com — we’re happy to help recommend the best level for your child! 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: Level 2 – Confident Communicators Grades 2–4 | 5 Weeks | 1 Hour Per Week (Prerequisite: Talk Trekkers Intro Class or Camp — see below) MUST BE IN GRADES 2-4! 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: ✔️ 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 Sept. 23 due to Student Holiday!