Communication is a life skill that is essential for youth to develop for success in their adult life. This year, 174 students in Levy County worked to improve this skill through participating in the FL 4-H Public Speaking Contest. This contest takes place at the classroom, school, and county levels.

During the week before Thanksgiving, thirteen students competed at the Levy County FL 4-H Public Speaking Contest that was held in Bronson, FL. Speech topics varied from global warming, barrel racing, friends, arts and 4-H experiences. The crowd was full of parents, siblings, grandparents, and educators. All there to support these students as they took the stage and spoke to a room of strangers. Each of these students should be proud of themselves for the courage they demonstrated by delivering their speeches.

Participating educators have shared that as a result of this program, students gain a sense of confidence and perseverance. Many of these students also improve their teamwork and empathy skills indirectly through these activities. One educator shared that they have seen this program make a noticeable difference in the self-esteem of those who may not be the best writers or speakers.

This program continues to grow in Levy County. The Levy County 4-H Agent plans to continue working with these educators to continue the delivery of the FL 4-H Public Speaking Contest to the youth of Levy County. If you have a 4th, 5th or 6th grade student, be on the look out for further details next school year!

2023 Winners

Elementary School Division Winners: 1st, Eleanor Huffman. 2nd, Kataleyah LeBlanc. 3rd, Darbi Davis.

Middle School Division Winners: 1st, Wren Adams. 2nd, Caraline Jerrels. 3rd, Sebastian Pantaleon.

UF/IFAS Extension Levy County is an Equal Opportunity Institution. Visit the Levy County 4-H website here to find out more information about our programming. Please email levy4h@ifas.ufl.edu or call (352)486-5131 to join today!

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