Middle school students compete for speech club
The middle school speech team from St. Peter School in Lincoln participated in the “Jeff Jamboree” competition in Fairbury on April 11.
The event gave students an opportunity to develop public speaking skills and build confidence, which are considered important both for their education and personal growth. The St. Peter Speech Club was formed during the 2023-24 school year to help students live out values expressed in 1 Timothy 4:12.
Coach Janice Anderson said the club was started so that students could learn to set an example through their words and actions. “They have important things to say, and they do not need to be afraid to say it,” Anderson said.
Students practice speaking with authority and thinking quickly during club meetings. Anderson explained, “With Saint John Chrysostom as our patron saint and Saint Moses as our role model, we know that God will help us to be His voice. All He requires is a willing heart.”
During the April competition, eighth-graders Rebekah Wilke and Gianna Wesley placed first in duet acting; Wilke also won first place in impromptu speaking and second place in persuasive speaking. Eighth-grader Priya Steiner took first place in storytelling; sixth grader Addison Biba placed fourth in storytelling; and sixth-grader Leighten Leahy finished ninth in oral interpretation of humorous prose.
The Diocese of Lincoln promotes adherence to Catholic traditions while engaging members through communications and events according to its official website. The diocese comprises 134 parishes and six educational institutions according to its official website, seeking to nurture followers who actively practice their beliefs according to its official website. It extends services across southern Nebraska according to its official website and offers support for vocations, family life, youth programs, catechesis, evangelization, and charitable efforts according to its official website. The Diocese operates as a religious organization according to its official website.
