SPEAK Professional Development Conference

The SPEAK Professional Development Conference is designed to enhance communication skills and provide essential training for educators and students alike. Hosted at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, this event focuses on the development of strong communication abilities, which are increasingly critical in today's educational landscape. The conference invites educators interested in professional growth, particularly those involved in speech and debate, to participate in various workshops aimed at improving instructional practices and student outcomes.One of the highlighted sessions is the NewSPEAK training, which is particularly beneficial for rookie coaches. This session emphasizes the importance of preparing new coaches to support their teams effectively. In addition, educators can attend the SMALL TALK presentation, which covers vital skills for students required to present their learning as part of various initiatives like the Portrait of a Learner. The conference aims to equip teachers with strategies to help students overcome communication apprehension, especially as many have faced challenges in public speaking due to the effects of COVID-19 and remote learning.The conference features multiple workshops, including sessions led by Steve Meadows, the Executive Director of the Kentucky High School Speech League. Participants will engage in hands-on learning experiences that address both the psychological aspects of communication and practical teaching techniques. The workshops are structured to assist instructors in redesigning existing curricula to incorporate opportunities for students to achieve small victories in communication, fostering their growth and confidence.In addition to the communication-focused workshops, the conference provides an overview of competitive speech and debate events, guiding educators on how to establish or enhance competitive teams in Kentucky. This includes detailed instructions on constructing arguments, understanding debate formats, and managing tournaments effectively. The conference not only supports current educators but aims to inspire new generations of teachers and coaches to foster a vibrant culture of speech and debate among students.