Two weeks ago, two of our teachers had what can only be described as the toughest hour of the year yet . . . deciding the winner of the Junior Speech Competition.

We had six outstanding students who took up the challenge to be the top speaker in the junior year levels. The students were all so talented that it really was a tough job.

Annabelle Auld and Sophia Devereux spoke about the influence of Peppa Pig and any parent reading this can be glad that they were born before that pig became popular. If you have young children, get them away from that show.

Lucy Holdaway spoke about the power of music and had the biggest UE Boom I have ever seen to support her speech. Sayu spoke about Rosa Parks and how her simple (but pretty courageous) "No" sparked the Civil Rights Movement.

Medha gave an inspiring speech about what it means to be a good leader. She took out second place with her excellent delivery of that content. 

Our winner was Kate Gopperth who delivered an outstanding speech about how fairy tales can significantly influence women's understanding of themselves and each other. She suggested Rapunzel use her own extremely long hair to climb out of that tower and live amongst others from an early age. I am disappointed that Rapunzel did not think of this herself considering that she had a significant amount of time on her hands. The only downside to that solution is that she may not have become such a great singer.

All the students were outstanding and I hope every single one enters again for either the Junior or Senior Speech Competition next year.