February 2022, Williamstown Elementary School, in the 5th grade history class. This is where some Grant County 5th graders learned that they can public speak and overcame their fears of giving a speech in front of people. On one of my monthly school visits the kids learned how to prepare a speech or demonstration for the communication contest. They learned about the parts that make up a speech, how to dress, researching it, and how to deliver them. Once we went through the lessons the kids had an opportunity to do an elevator speech on why they should be president or why they should be the principal. Most of these students did not want to even think of doing it, but once we made it fun and easy they enjoyed the process. These students had about 4 weeks to prepare a speech or demo for their classroom which was judged and then had a chance to earn a spot to the county contest! 8 youth from Williamstown represented at the county level and we had 5 advance on to districts in April. Afterwards the youth felt like they could do it again, even with a few nerves! We are proud that these students were able to overcome their fear of public speaking and even advancing on.