Just before spring break, our OLHMS scholars took the stage at Grissom Middle School in Tinley Park to compete against every school in our conference. Ms. Kennedy led and coached the Declamation Team of six 6th graders, two 7th graders, and one 8th grader. Students worked day in and day out to perfect their performances through after school practices and hosting performances in the library for students to watch and support the Declamation Team. Our 8th grade student, Makayla M., performed a poem, which earned her 1st place in the Declamation Tournament. When Makayla was asked why she joined the Declamation Team, she said “my teacher [Mrs. Georgelos] recommended me to do it, and my mom was on the Declamation Team when she was younger.” When Makayla was at the declamation tournament, she said “it was a great experience to go up and compete against other students at different schools. I was pretty nervous, but so happy to be there.” One thing Makayla said is special about declamation is “how people are able to express themselves through various poems. Some people have poems that are five minutes long, and they are still able to express their emotions without forgetting any words.” When it comes to declamation, Makayla said that “it’s really important not to pick just any poem- you have to pick the poem that is right for you.”
Makayla will be attending Oak Lawn Community High School next year, and she is so excited to join the Declamation Team.