This is a remarkable era of education redesign in Vermont; unprecedented change calls for unprecedented action.  Opportunities for youth to partner with adults as messengers and co-creators of school remodeling is unparalleled with the advent of Act 77: Flexible Pathways and new Education Quality Standards. In order to be effective change agents, individuals of all ages require core skill development. UP for Learning is offering a highly effective workshop on Public Speaking, to support any youth-adult team currently reshaping the nature of learning in their schools.

Who Should Come

 This workshop is for high school students, teachers, administrators, school board members or other faculty partnering in school change efforts. It is important to note that we are not offering a general skill training, but rather fostering capacity building for youth-adult teams actively engaged in redesign efforts.  It is expected that participants will immediately utilize these new  communication skills back at home (YATST teams, Act 77 or Education Quality Standards implementation efforts, League of Innovative Schools or Proficiency-based learning work).  The recommended team composition is 2 adults and 2-4 youth; team size can vary but a mix of youth and adults is required.

Public Speaking Workshop Overview:

Those involved in school change often find themselves “on the spot” in varied public speaking settings. Common fears about speaking in public will be replaced by a simple approach to organizing and focusing ideas, based on a belief that public speaking is not about perfection, or performing, but rather sharing and exchanging ideas.  Participants will learn the essential components of public speaking, including tips and exercises to improve speaking and listening skills, the impact of body language, the power of our gestures, and the use of vocal variety.  In large and small groups exercises, attendees will gain confidence by speaking and listening to one another, learning how to receive and give meaningful, supportive reflections. This workshop will be facilitated by Dona Bate, President and owner of dbate speaking, a communications consulting firm in Montpelier. Dona has 35 years of achievements as speaker, trainer, manager, mediator and group facilitator.

Additional Information

Snacks, beverages and lunch will be provided.  Registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first serve basis and space is limited.  

Vermont Schools:  $75 for each adult and $50 for each student

Full Member YATST Schools:  Free for a team of 8 ($25 for each additional participant)

Alumni YATST Schools: $25 per participant

Communicating School Redesign class participants:  

Free for team of 4 ($25 for each additional participant)