To The Editor:
On behalf of the Global Studies teachers at Harwood Union High School, I wish to extend appreciation to the community members who took time from their very busy schedules to serve as judges for students’ persuasive speeches on Monday, April 10. All of our judges were nominated by students as members in their community who demonstrated the spirit of innovation. This event highlighted every Harwood ninth-grade student sharing a speech designed to persuade the listener about the value of an innovative product or service of their choosing. Speeches were challenging, as it required the student to provide persuasive evidence in two minutes or less. Judges experienced between 25 and 30 speeches during their session. In the end, the four highest scoring speeches were performed in front of the entire ninth-grade class in an assembly. Community judges provided an authentic audience to offer objective feedback. I know the students “stepped up their game” as a result.
A deep and hearty thank you to the following community members: Randy George and Eliza Cain from Red Hen Baking Company, Leigh Williams from Laughing Moon Chocolates, George Schenk from American Flatbread, Win Smith from Sugarbush Resort, Troy Kingsbury from Village Grocery and Ryan Bushey, Harwood Union STEM teacher.
I am always amazed at the level of support Harwood students receive from our community. Our students benefit from the time, energy and backing of so many, every day.
Ellen Berrings
Next Step Program
