​Civic Engagement and Public Speaking

By Maya Tavares ’24
Each year, the Fourth Formers participate in a course titled “Civic Engagement and Public Speaking.” We meet once a week and discuss various theoretical subjects as a class. The course is taught by the renowned Todd Eckerson, a dedicated man who has taught for decades. Students have enjoyed learning about different theoretical perspectives and social issues via guided class discussions. As the material is thoughtful and engaging, students feel encouraged to speak freely and gain confidence throughout the course.
 
Each year, Mr. Eckerson most enjoys the chance to get to know the Fourth Form. As he observes the class, he recognizes the student's progression in confidence throughout the course. He hopes that the class will help students to “take out a sense of truly engaging in Westminster,” and develop a “greater ease for public speaking.”
 
As we reach the halfway point of the year, many students believe that this has been a reality for them, as they find that the skills they have learned in class have translated into their other schoolwork. While this class is to some extent a demanding course when it comes to the essay writing portion, many students appreciate the refreshing “book-less” experience. This essential time to speak about civil conversations is what makes it such a unique class and is debatably one of the best ones at Westminster.