Lawrence County Technology and Career Teacher Academy students competed in the Educators Rising State Conference in February at William Carey University. Fourteen students placed in the top five and were eligible to compete at the National State Conference, in Washington DC, in June.
Erica Barnes, Teacher Academy I student, competed in the Impromptu Speaking competition. The purpose of this competition is to show poise, self–confidence, and the ability to use effective oral communication skills while under pressure.
The competition is designed to recognize students who demonstrate these qualities while combining clear thinking and conversational speaking into a coherent presentation on a current education-related topic. Erica was given a four by six index card and ten minutes prep time. She was given the following topic: Should religious schools be aided with public funds?
She responded, “Yes, funding religious schools would therefore make them public and more people would be able to go more in depth in their beliefs while also receiving a proper education.” Erica continued by backing up her initial statement with supporting details and how she believes these funds could help religious schools.
Erica placed first in the competition, bringing home the award both for herself and the Teacher Academy Program at LCTCC.