New Hampton, Iowa – New Hampton Middle School’s oratory program has been polishing their golden pipes in preparation for the group’s showcase night.
Instructor Jason Rude says 14 students have written speeches with a chance to compete in the nation’s capital.
An outside panel of judges will evaluate the presentations on oratory night, which is on Monday at 6 at the middle school. The event is open to the public.
Rude says the top two will travel to Washington D.C. May 3-7 to present in front of thousands.
The students started after Christmas break. The preparation has shown growth to Rude.
He added the group exceeds national baseline standards according to a national researcher.
For Rude, the most important piece is the impact an experience like this has on his students.
