13-03-2025
Rochester students take a stand on issues with soapbox speeches
ROCHESTER, NY (WROC) – Students in Rochester were able to have their voices heard on Wednesday as part of what's called Project Soapbox.
Project Soapbox is a partnership with the Mikva Challenge, an organization that helps to build up kids in the community, and help them grow their voice when it comes to certain hot-button issues of today.
As part of the initiative on Wednesday, the Rochester City School District invited students to give two-minute speeches on problems that matter to them while standing on a soapbox. Topics ranged from mental health to violence and poverty.
Teachers guided students through research to prepare them in the days leading up to the event. Previously, students had presented their speeches at their individual schools. This is the second year the district has come together for a full showcase.
(WROC/Alec Richardson)
Officials said it's not only a good opportunity to learn about and educate others on important topics, but also to work on public speaking and presentation skills.
Primetime 585 Shining Star: Rhoan Kaulder
'I think it's really important that people realize that, no matter what, you're always going to have to speak in public, you know, one day or another. Especially me being a senior, I'm about to graduate, you know, I've got to go to college, talk to people, interact with people, it's very important,' said Quincy St. Louis, a student at School of the Arts.
To learn more about the Mivka Challenge mission and Project Soapbox, click here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
