Cape Christian gives students confidence in public speaking

Public speaking is one of the most feared acts known to mankind.

Many hate doing it, are uncomfortable doing it and would rather face a grizzly bear with a sling shot.

But one local school is baking public speaking into its curriculum to help children gain confidence in speaking before audiences so they don't develop the phobia.

"You're going to be nervous, but that's the whole thing -- to get over it," speech and drama teacher Terry Maire said. "You have to do it a lot in life."

Cape Christian School mandates public speaking starting at the first grade. While perhaps not popular, school officials say students gain confidence, not just in speaking publicly, but in other areas of the classroom setting as well, adding that Cape Christian students are more likely to take on leadership positions in high school and college. Public speaking skills tend to be helpful for leaders.

Public speaking is a teachable skill that is often overlooked on today's educational spectrum.

But it's a valuable asset to have in your toolbox, and the students at Cape Christian seem to be getting a head start in stepping up to the podium.