Learning how to effectively speak and communicate in front of a group of people is one of the most important things a person can learn how to do and it is also one of the hardest things for someone to learn.

As with anything that is important in life, it takes lots of practice and commitment to be successful. That is why the most important thing your son or daughter can do to be successful on the speech team is to practice everyday and stay committed to their goals. The second most important thing is for you to completely support them in this activity and provide them the time and atmosphere that will help them be successful. Give them your time to listen to them and provide constructive advice. Give them quiet time so they can rehearse without interruptions. Check in on them from time to time to make sure they aren't getting frustrated with their practice.

Another important part of competing in speech competitions is dressing and looking professional. In the handout you will find more specific information on how students should dress, look and behave at competitions. Please read it with your son or daughter. If purchasing additional appropriate clothing is not within your means, please call me or see me after school.

Finally, you can help by making sure your son or daughter gets to school on time when we have competitions. These tournaments take place during the winter months on Saturdays. We will have to leave CVCA very early (between 5:00 and 6:00 AM) in order to get to the tournaments on time. Students who miss the team bus will not be able to participate. So, your support is very important in making sure your son or daughter gets to bed early, gets a lot of sleep, gets a good healthy breakfast and gets to the bus on time.

Remember, speech team is governed by the IHSA, the same organization that governs all the high school sports teams. There are State regionals, sectionals and finals competitions. This is a big deal!

So, support your son or daughter as they strive for personal success as a vital member of the CVCA Speech Team.

Thank you,

Mr. R. Badesch