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Students present original speeches, district highlights Artability showcase
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Summary
North Middle School students performed original oratory pieces about mental health and peer support; the district’s special education and art staff described 'Artability,' a downtown showcase of student work that submitted 20 projects on April 17.
Students from North Middle School delivered original oratory pieces at the start of the meeting and district staff described a recent Artability event celebrating students with disabilities.
Tamra Hoffman introduced the program and explained that the oratory class combines theater and public speaking; selected students had the opportunity to attend a Ford’s Theater oratory festival in Washington, D.C., with dress rehearsal at the Lincoln Memorial. Student Hana Arang delivered "A Plastered Smile," addressing youth mental health and urging peers to check on friends. Arang referenced a National Alliance on Mental Illness figure saying about 17% of youth ages 6–17 are diagnosed with serious mental health problems.
Gwyneth Harris presented "Talk to Me" and described her role as part of Hope Squad, a peer-support group that connects students to resources when they are bullied or overwhelmed. Harris cited an American Psychological Association figure — stated in the transcript as 70% — about teens identifying anxiety or depression as major issues among peers.
Sarah Carpenter, the district's special education assistant director for elementary level, presented Artability, a community showcase held April 17 in downtown Sioux Falls that displayed 20 projects from participating schools. Carpenter said Artability connects families with the extended community, promotes inclusion and highlights students' strengths.
Board members expressed appreciation for the student presentations and the Artability event and paused the formal agenda for photos and recognition.
