Henry Greve Middle School Speech Contest
In 1955, a speech contest for Kern County 7th and 8th graders was established. Originally this contest was held for students in schools having Junior Toastmasters or Gavel Clubs. Since these clubs in Kern County have declined, the Bakersfield Toastmasters Club has assumed sponsorship so that 7th and 8th grade students have an opportunity to participate in a speech event.
In 1963, this speech contest was named in memory of Henry Greve. A speech therapist in Kern County, Henry Greve was a member of Bakersfield Toastmasters Club #270; he made an outstanding contribution to boys and girls by supporting their participation in oral language activities.
Rules and guidelines for the competition are:
1. Prepare a speech on the designated topic.
2. Appropriate speaking time is 4.5 - 7 minutes (not timed).
3. Material should be original.
4. If quotations are used, the source must be identified.
5. No props or costumes.
2021-2022 TOPIC: What was the biggest impact the pandemic had on society?
Student speeches are judged on content (50%), delivery (30%), and language (20%). Student speeches should have an opening with clear main ideas and conclusions. It should be an original speech which engages the audience with relevant examples, facts, and figures. The physical presentation of speech should include good voice and be delivered with enthusiasm and assurance. Please see the speech judging rules for more specific information.
Rosedale students who are interested in participating in this contest should contact the school counselor to express interest and get more details for deadlines and dates of the competition.
Freedom Middle School: Stacy Triggs
Rosedale Middle School: Bree Bogacki
The top two regional winners will participate in the county-level final on Thursday, March 24, 2022, at 6:30 p.m., at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office, City Centre, Room 1B on 1300 17th Street, Bakersfield. The perpetual trophy will be presented to the winner, whose name will be engraved on the trophy, and the trophy will be on display at the winner’s school for one year.