On Tuesday,
April 24, 2012 six Toastmasters’ members participated in an innovative
compressed teaching and training program of public speaking aimed at
high-school seniors from the Saginaw public school system. It is estimated that 200 students attended
the six sessions during the day.
The purpose
of this intense program was to prepare the graduating seniors for real-life job
interviews and focused project presentation in front of potential
employers. The first of a kind unique
and innovative program was negotiated between Paul Arnhold, Lt. Governor for
Marketing in Toastmasters’ District 62, and Elizabeth Stuber, coordinator for
the Saginaw Career Complex (2102 Weiss street, Saginaw MI).
The training
program was tailored to the educational needs of the high-school seniors. It is constructed based on Toastmasters
International training principles and matched the students and school
requirements.
The
classroom contents were written and edited by Jeannie Dellar and Paul Arnhold through
several iterations and continuous refinements with input from TM members-participants during prior teleconference
sessions. Introductory principles to
public speaking were written TM members - Lori Lyons and Amy Lee Hetzman. Speaking demonstrations were conducted by all
6 TM group members. The demonstrations
were interactive with the participation of the students-audience. There was a break-out sessions for each group
of students.
In each
class there were bold and brave students who demonstrated natural flair and
confidence in solo public speaking.
Other students were given doses of encouragement by applause and loud
cheers. The atmosphere was one of fun
and entertainment.
Teaching
materials that were developed for this successful didactic program are
available to other TM clubs and members.
The Mid-Michigan
member contributors were: Arnhold, Dellar, Hetzman, Lender, Lyons, Trevino and Gauthier.
Contact information: Paul Arnhold 989 790-3829.
