The Top Five Benefits 4th and 5th Grade Students Gain from Learning Public Speaking Skills.

The MLK Speak Up! Oratory Tournament is coming to Phoenix next Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend, January 2027!

What is the MLK 2027 Speak Up Tournament About?

The MLK 2027 Speak UP Oratory Tournament invites fourth- and fifth-grade students from Phoenix area schools to write and deliver original 3–5-minute speeches based on a pre-selected topic inspired by Dr. King’s teachings. The goal is to encourage critical thinking, writing and speaking, while connecting students to Dr. King’s ideals of justice, equality, and hope.

Most of all, these students will release their inner public-speaking genius by finding their voice!

What Inspired You to Launch this Effort?

I believe every child has an inner-public speaking genius. I want children to succeed by developing their own perspectives and learning to express them clearly in a friendly, competitive forum. Through this experience, they are exposed to the viewpoints of their peers, which helps them learn and grow.

Why Do You Feel Public Speaking Can Be a Significant Character-Development Tool?

Learning to channel their inner-public speaking genius helps kids develop the confidence to overcome communication apprehension – the fear or anxiety triggered by real or anticipated communication with others (groups). This confidence will serve them well as they develop into mature young adults.

Registration opens August 1, 2026 at www.pastorwericcroomes.com

Contact for more information:

info@pastorwericcroomes.com