At Unquowa, 8th Grade Speeches are… a big deal. Students who have been here since Lower School have seen dozens and dozens of speeches by the time that their turn rolls around, and some have known for years what their topic will be about. But nothing really prepares them for the act of standing up in front of their peers, parents, and the entire gathered school community who all eagerly await what they have to say. It’s enough to make even the faintest heart quiver. This could be terrifying, and sometimes feels like it, but every year, 8th Graders always, without fail, rise to the occasion and deliver excellent reflections that inspire their younger peers, teachers, and families. Currently, 8th Graders have been reflecting on the art of communication in Humanities, and have finished up writing their speeches. The next step is to create an incredible slideshow to go along with it, and practice, practice, practice before their big day, where they’ll be speaking to the Unquowa community and not just to their class. Good luck, 8th Grade!