Sussex Academy students shine in 4-H public speaking contest

Sussex Academy students made a great showing in the Sussex County 4-H public speaking contest held Jan. 25, with two pupils winning their divisions.

Eighth-grader Liam Probert won the junior division for his speech on the importance of outdoor summer camps for kids. Junior Kieran Probert won the senior extemporaneous division for his speech on how public speaking and presenting opportunities provided by 4-H have changed and improved his life and skills.

The 4-H public speaking contests begin at the county level and are open to members ages 5 to 19. Members research a topic and present timed speeches that graduate in length with each age division. Speeches can be serious, funny or sad, but all must be informational.

Contestants are judged on a variety of criteria, including organization of the information, use of communication skills and contact with the audience. The contestant with the highest score in each age category will advance to the state-level contest held during the Delaware State Fair in July.