Faculty Mentor Name
Rolly Kali-Rai
Abstract
Throughout our service at Colonial Heights Elementary School, we observed that many students lacked academic self-confidence, which contributed to anxiety surrounding public speaking. The purpose of this SPA project was to introduce public speaking skills early in students’ academic careers and to help build confidence in an academic setting. This project was primarily implemented through the after-school program (ASES) and served students across multiple grade levels. Because public speaking is a common fear, the project focused on guiding students through structured practice and engaging activities designed to strengthen oral communication, writing, and critical thinking skills. The project included three rounds of presentations. Each Monday, students were given two to four prompts and were encouraged to develop responses to as many as they wished throughout the week during Homework Hour. Every Friday, students had the opportunity to present their work to their peers, sharing their writing and drawings in a supportive environment. Through this project, we aimed to reduce students’ fear of speaking in front of others and help them feel more confident and motivated to participate in school activities.
Location
DeRosa University Center, University of the Pacific
Start Date
24-4-2026 3:00 PM
End Date
24-4-2026 5:00 PM
Voices In Action
DeRosa University Center, University of the Pacific
Throughout our service at Colonial Heights Elementary School, we observed that many students lacked academic self-confidence, which contributed to anxiety surrounding public speaking. The purpose of this SPA project was to introduce public speaking skills early in students’ academic careers and to help build confidence in an academic setting. This project was primarily implemented through the after-school program (ASES) and served students across multiple grade levels. Because public speaking is a common fear, the project focused on guiding students through structured practice and engaging activities designed to strengthen oral communication, writing, and critical thinking skills. The project included three rounds of presentations. Each Monday, students were given two to four prompts and were encouraged to develop responses to as many as they wished throughout the week during Homework Hour. Every Friday, students had the opportunity to present their work to their peers, sharing their writing and drawings in a supportive environment. Through this project, we aimed to reduce students’ fear of speaking in front of others and help them feel more confident and motivated to participate in school activities.
