Online Winter-Spring Season
WHSFA has consulted the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, as well as DPI, WIAA, WSMA, NFHS, and similar organizations. All 2020-21 contests will be online, with run as mostly asynchronous, statewide options (no schools will host). See specific guidance, FAQs on the Speech Contests and/or Middle Level Contests pages.
Learning Objectives
- Promote literacy: read, write, speak, and listen
- Build confidence and social skills through peer support
- Foster information literacy and research
- Develop critical thinking skills and logical reasoning
- Increase social awareness and responsibility
- Provide outlet for creative expression for both gifted and at-risk youth
- Conquer stage fright before fear of public speaking can develop
- Explore topics of personal relevance
- Extend learning in cross-curricular topics
Participation Philosophy
Teachers who work effectively with students in middle level grades are aware of the adolescent need for positive reinforcement and success. Therefore, the WHSFA Middle Level Division is founded on:- Opportunities for participation
- Opportunities for learning; and
- Opportunities for success.
Interscholastic Contests
- Festivals promote individual achievement through rating and constructive criticism
- Non-competitive; students are not compared to each other; they are evaluated on a rubric
- $100 annual school dues covers student participation in two contests, including awards!
"Middle Level forensic programs should build knowledge, confidence and interest in speaking as a lifelong skill."
Middle Level Division Founders